It’s a 7-course affair
Gourmet Guide, Hyderabad’s only restaurant and pub finder is turning Seven.
And as it does, this year it has turned
into a younger, crispier and more informative guide.
Restaurants and pubs galore in the twin
cities, getting all of them onto one
platform was arduous. Over and above,
the food and beverage industry is still
upbeat in spite of the global gloom;
numerous restaurants and pubs springing up surprises either by way of their
food, or their décor or even their prices.
Hyderabad is witnessing a new age of
eating out. This transformation is indeed gratifying, given the city’s positioning as a high-end lifestyle hub.
Given this scenario we have tried our
best to get you the latest restaurants
and pubs which have come up in the
last one year other than the established
ones.

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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

But this year we squeezed down the

tified some of the dynamic restaura-

tedious 16-course French classical

teurs and pub owners in the city who

menu to a 7-course delight! What this

have created a new dining experience

meant was giving you the large pic-

in the city of Hyderabad.

ture in a small frame as we did in the
past but with more ‘quick’ variety and
without losing any of the sheen. Like
in the past, we give you quick glances
of Hyderabad, its huge collection of eat
outs and pubbing options, couple of

We hope that with this latest edition
from the Indian Express Limited, you
will find new options of dining & wining and that you will be able to decide
on your eating out options with ease.
After all, it is just a 7-course affair.

celebrities, and a comprehensive listing of F&B outlets for your reference.

Cheers.

The added features mainly revolve
around our theme – 7. You will find
our pick on the top ambient restaurants and pubs, best open-air restaurants, best budget restaurants and pubs,

BIJU MATHEWS
GENERAL MANAGER
INDIAN EXPRESS LIMITED

best delicacies and where to get
them…We have also included a section on the top Food and Beverage
entrepreneurs wherein we have iden-

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

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5

SEVEN REASONS TO DINE
IN HYDERABAD, TODAY
Biryani sure has found its place
in the dictionary. And Hyderabad
has played an integral part in
making it see through. While
Biryanis are not new to the world,
the Hyderabadi Biryani makes it
to the top of the list primarily because it is the face of Andhra
Pradesh for every tourist, domestic or International. But the twin
cities of Hyderabad and
Secunderabad have more to it
than just biryanis. There are
plenty of reasons why an ardent
tourist or an exchange student or
a domestic tourist from another
state should try eating out in the
twin cities. We give you seven
reasons for dining in Hyderabad
in its best form today;

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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Dine 1
It’s now become a cliché that
Hyderabad is synonymous with Biryani
and Charminar. But then you just cannot imagine a Hyderabadi without a
Biryani attached. Several old restaurants have been associated with the
lives of Hyderabadis as well as those
who come to visit them from other
cities and states. Paradise, Bawarchi,
Shahdaab…these are names which
any Hyderabadi will swear by when
asked for the best joint for a Biryani.
So, however old and however clichéd
it maybe, in Hyderabad the Biryani will
always rule.

Dine 2
Cosmopolitan culture has brought onto
fore the best of Indian cuisines and international delicacies along with chic
décor and the divide between the haves
and have nots. While previously the
haves used to have the only option of
getting a cook and prepare the best of
delicacies for them and the have-nots
had the small time joints dispensing
affordable Biryani in a shanty with décor
being an alien concept. But with the
cosmopolitan culture coming to force
and increasing exceedingly with time,
the divide between the have and have
nots too have declined. With outlets
to suit all pockets and décor becoming
a little familiar term even for the lower
middle class, the dining habits have
taken a new turn and the era of eating
out with family and friends in a new
joint other than the Biryani is in. International, Oriental, multi-cuisine outlets, coffee shops, fast food outlets,
home delivery services are now common in the twin cities and more & more

people are curious to find the best and
the latest options of dining. So dining
out and experimenting with new cuisines, decors and bills find room for
reason two.

Dine 3
Typical Andhra delicacies have always
been associated with being very spicy,
but the myth is busted when you explore traditional Andhra delicacies in
some of the restaurants in the city.
Pappu, the Telugu word for cooked
Redgram / Pigeonpea seeds; Kodikoora
(Chicken), Mekamamsam (mutton
curry), Chepakoora (Fish curry) and
Royyakoora (Prawn curry); Vepudu Fried vegetable curry; Vulavacharu
(cooked Horsegram soup) with cream
which is fast becoming an international
recipe; have all been explored well in
terms of spice balance and the oil factor; which when taken in authentic
traditional style will have abundance
of both. But then you definitely get the
taste of real Andhra delicacies in sophisticated taste and style. Outlets like
Rayalaseema Ruchulu, Deori,
Kuchipudi, Jewel of Nizam, give you
the best tastes of authentic Andhra
delicacies in a contemporary décor.

Dine 4
Global options are galore these days
with the fast growing number of expatriates visiting the city. So there is Fusion 9, 100 Degrees, Collage, IndiJoe
and more, which have now become a
regular haunt for both Indians as well
as foreigners. With KFC, Pizza Hut,
Pizza Corner and café’s like Barista and
Café Coffee Day springing up new surprises for the ardent coffeeir, the din-

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

7

ing style and lifestyle is on a global
upswing in the twin cities.

Dine 5
The home breed of authentic delicacies for varied culture is also springing
up in every nook and cranny of the city.
So in varied pockets you have exclusive delicacies from Punjab, Gujarati,
Jain, Malayali, North-Eastern or remote Indian-Chinese delicacies. Needs
(Serving Punjabi delicacies), Nanking
(one of the oldest restaurant serving
authentic Chinese in a home-feel
style), Jiva (Ohri Group moderately extravagant style tribute to Rajasthani
vegetarian delights in one part of the
outlet), Reshmi’s (Home feel North Indian Food outlet)…all form a complete
list of options for the culturally diverse
Indian crowd in the twin cities.

Dine 6
The pub culture too is fast driving over
the speed limit in the twin cities with the most modern and sophisticated
decor often capable
of
getting
splashed with
best of celebrities and top
end
socialites within and from
across the country. Splashy
lighting, sleek interiors, innovative
cocktails and mocktails…rocking music- hip-hop, retro, jazz, pop… laser
lighting, shiny dance floor….attract
the best of Hyderabad’s modern young
crowd. The nightlife is fast becoming happening in the city.

Dine 7
Entrepreneurship in terms of restaurant
business is fast turning business magnets to open up some of the most contemporary designed outlets and
innovatively designed menus for the
Hyderabadi. While the Biryani is never
forgotten in the midst of Chicken Fajita
Nachos, Chicken Wings and Fried Mozzarella, the restaurateurs of Hyderabad
have been able to translate modern
dining ideas into great business ventures. Ohri’s, Celebrations, Minerva
Group among others are examples of
entrepreneurial elegance and how they
can come up with offerings for the gourmand in the twin cities of Hyderabad
and Secunderabad. These are groups
and people who are reasons for a great
dining experience within the city.
With these seven reasons and reasons
not lesser than any other city in the
country, Hyderabad and Secunderabad
have proven to exist as one of the most
suited places offering the most traditional dining options in a subdued
aura as well as
the most contemporary and
global delicacies
in the most sophisticated of ambience.
These Seven reasons could give you
ample excuse for a try on your taste
buds in some of the most popular
restaurants and pubs in the
twin cities.
With tastes galore, go for it
in Hyderabad.

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Indian cuisine has been perfected through time and today the cuisine finds
varied reasons to rejoice in various restaurants in the twin cities. Our pick of
few Indian cuisine restaurants which have created a niche for themselves.

HALDI
Haldi recreates Indian fine dining
and provides for a fulfilling and
satisfying dining experience. It
generates a home away from
home feeling in every morsel with
rare note of nutritional values.

DEORI
Serving the best of the
Nawabs’ delicacies
coupled with Andhra
cuisine, Deori at Ista
Hotel offers some great
variety of cuisine balanced well in taste,
spice, and royalty.

KEBABS AND
KURRIES
Serving Indian cuisine from Northern to the Southern regions, Kebabs and Kurries is ITC’s new establishment. Surely special.

KHANDANI
RAJDHANI
Serving authentic Rajasthani,
Gujarati and few Punjabi delicacies, the thaalis served here come
with 32 items; each day unique.

PUNJABI BY
NATURE
The outlet’s culinary heritage has been rated high
by food connoisseurs.
10

SPICE
JUNXION
Stylish & contemporary
Spice Junxion is a
confluence, where the
cuisines from Andhra,
Telangana, Kerala, Tamil
Nadu, Karnataka and
Hyderabad meet. It has
the best recipes from
South India, adapted to
a contemporary menu.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Oriental cuisine has always been quite popular around the world, and in
Hyderabad there are some great dining options. Specialising in the Oriental
delicacies with a tinge of Indian flavour, here are our pick of top seven.

FAR EAST
To most people Oriental cuisine
translates just Chinese food. But
at Ohri’s Far East you get the
choicest of culinary jewels from
Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Korea and of course, China.

NANKING
Fifty plus and still maintaining the same taste
and charm, Nanking is
among the most familiar
names and brands in
Hyderabad renowned for
its authentic Chinese delicacies.

CHINESE
PAVILION
To taste something Oriental, Chinese Pavilion is the perfect place
which offers you sizzling Chinese
delicacies.

GOLDEN DRAGON
Golden Dragon, Taj’s authentic
Chinese Restaurant, draws inspiration from its namesake, the symbol of the Emperor, of Royalty, and
Grandeur, serving the best of
Szechwan and Canton Cuisines.

AROMAS OF
CHINA
Chinese delicacies prepared by Indian chefs,
without missing the rudiments of spices and
flora & fauna, Aromas of
China from BJN Group is
a must try for its great
cuisine

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Global cuisine restaurants have been picking up fast in the twin cities and
they have all come up with some of the most exclusive delicacies that the
gourmet world has to offer. Here are seven of our top picks

ENCOUNTERS
A 24-hour global eatery themed
around Mediterranean and serving international delicacies; it is
a perfect place for expatriates and
those seeking a change in spice
and cuisine.

ALCHEMY
The new lounge and
dine option at the Ellaa
Suites, Alchemy brings
in unique cuisines from
the island nations of Fiji
and Hawaii, something
that is pretty new to
Hyderabadis.

FUSION 9
Probably the first restaurant in
Hyderabad to offer global fine dining cuisine, Fusion 9 has been a
popular choice amongst food
connoisseurs for many years and
continues its legacy.

ON KITCHEN
The ON kitchen has set new standards in fine dining, with an incredible Italian cuisine that is
worth an experience.

STEAKS AND
SIZZLERS

TGIFRIDAY’S

TGIFriday’s brings with
it the tastes and traditions of American Family Dining.

100 DEGREES

A restaurant with a complete outdoors theme,
Steaks and Sizzlers at
the Leonia Resorts offers
culinary delights of
steaks and sizzlers.

Ohri’s 100 Degrees is
known for its Sizzler varieties and has created
a unique niche.
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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Multi-cuisine options in the twin cities have grown in numbers and the quality has also increased in terms of cuisine as well as dĂŠcor. The numbers are
huge but we have picked few to try in terms of cuisine.

BLUE FOX
The name is synonymous with
quality; evident from its presence
in Hyderabad for more than 20
years. Minerva Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship
establishment.

45 JUBILEE
HILLS

HAMPI

This newly established
restaurant serves Indian
and Oriental fare, but the
speciality is some serious
Chinese food.

A real treat to the senses of both
sight and taste, transporting one
into a traditional South Indian atmosphere along with great delicacies.

HARITHA
The restaurant located at
Taramati Baradari tourist complex, Haritha offers a multi-cuisine fare, both Indian and Chinese delicacies.

OKRA
This outlet at Marriott
is a perfect blend of
design and cuisine.

PARADISE
A landmark, it is
renowned across the
country for traditional
biryani and kebabs.

DIASPORA
Diaspora offers a blend of
comfort, style and good
food in an elegant setting
totally different from its
nigh brothers at the Celebrations Food Villa. It is
a place showcased profoundly as pure and the
food gives a great garnish.

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13

More and more restaurants & pubs are developing affordable pricing strategy to
woo the consumer even while giving them great ambience, sumptuous food,
efficient service . The value of money factor is now in with most restaurants.

BLEU LOUNGE
AND DINE
With its elegant decor and Dining with the kind of cuisine offered, Rs.500-600 for a couple
is just the right pricing strategy.

HOLI
For a Couple the pricing
is affordable at Rs.300400 in Bali. Drinks cost
about Rs.200-300. Holi
on the 4th floor offers
50% off on food and
drinks!

PARIKRAMA
With its simplistic ambience and
spacious setting Rs.400-500 for
a couple is a great bet. Lunch Buffet is Rs.177; Happy Hours 12pm
-7pm (30% off liquor).

MELTING POT
With Rs.350-400 for a couple
and the Breakfast Buffet priced
at Rs.109, Melting pot surely is
ideal for the wallet.

BLUE FOX
With the kind of brand
image that this restaurant holds, Rs.500-600
for a couple and about
Rs.300-400 for drinks is
just fine pricing.

PADHARO
The restaurant combines
good food with a unique
village-like theme for
Rs.400-500.

WHISKY JOE
The lounge bar at the
Katriya De Royal
happens at Rs.400500 for a couple.
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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Design plays a vital role in the business of a restaurant or a pub and today in
the twin cities of Hyderabad & Secunderabad, one can be awed by the sheer
magic woven in some of the restaurants in terms of ambience.

BLEU LOUNGE
AND DINE
From the Minerva Group, this
lounge and fine-dine is masterfully designed with a blue theme
effectively put in place.

ALCHEMY
The lounge and dine option at the Ellaa Suites,
Alchemy brings in
unique décor and cuisines from the island
nations of Fiji and Hawaii. Superb.

OHRI’S 1857
Perched on the first floor, it is
designed to take their guests
back in time. It is Hyderabad’s
first Colonial themed RestroBar at Jalvihar.

To get the 7 best delicacies has been tough, what with so many restaurants
coming up with tastier creations of their signature dishes every day. Here we
have squeezed in seven which you should not miss.
Pardha Chicken (chicken breast slices stuffed with chicken, mutton and
paneer mince) at Bali- Holi Festive Dining

Saboota Talwar Kebab, tangy chicken-legs served skewered on a sword with
a charcoal flame lit under at Tadka, Ohri’s Banjara Hills

Raan – e – firdaus, the signature dish at Fidaus, Taj Krishna

Pathar Ka Gosht, an integral part of Hyderabadi cuisine in the days of royalty
and continues to hold pride of place. Try it at Kebab-e-Bahar, Taj Banjara.

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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

With most of the open spaces fast becoming concrete structure, the need for
open air dining has become a niche segment. There are very few options in
the twin cities for an outdoor experience and here are few of our ‘best’ picks.

KEBAB PAVILION
The tandoor speciality Kebab
Pavilion at Ellaa Suites is an
open air venue which permits
you to take in the aromas from
their live kitchen.

BALI

SWEET NIRVANA

Situated on the rooftop,
Bali in keeping with its
name is themed like a
restaurant straight out of
the island nation.

A new entrant in the city, Sweet
Nirvana is set in the open. The
gazebo style seating planned
under canopy tents is very Euro
and transforms you into a different land.

HORIZON
The rooftop venue in the Celebrations Food Villa, IT offers
some great sights and smells
with its views and barbeques.
A fun joint to celebrate your evenings.

KEBABS AND
ROTIS
A charming pool side
venue at Leonia.

KEBAB-EBAHAR

AL FRESCO
A Mongolian speciality
outlet serving only in the
evening, this is an exclusive restaurant which in
its open air décor is a
classic in itself and offers
an unmatched aura in
the twin cities.

The only outlet nigh an
in-house lake.
Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

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S
D
Road,
Secunderabadâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;500003,
Tel: 040-27896565.

Abhiruchi

Arguably one of the oldest and most established Andhra restaurants in
Secunderabad, situated near the Paradise Circle, it is your best bet when looking for some authentic Andhra food.

food

ambience

The vegetarian Thali is a must have.
Andhra style Biryanis and Boneless mutton biryani are popular. For the uninitiated the Andhra Biryani here has a different taste from the Hyderabadi variety which is available in twin cities.
Ask for some ghee and add it to the
Biryani rice to feel the difference. Also
try prawn fry or the crab curry with
Rumali Rotis.If you are a mutton freak
try the Mutton Gongura. Various fish
specialties are also available.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect a great ambience at the
restaurant as the place is mainly known
for its food. Housed in a two storied
building, the restaurant is placed well
in the centre of the city. The restaurant has an AC and a Non-AC section
and has tremendous customer loyalty
among office goers in this area. The
interiors and dining furniture is partitioned well according to the customers needs.

service

ideal for

Waiters are always around to make you
comfortable. Orders are served with
minimum waiting time.

Sat Sri Akal! An authentic and exclusive native food joint with all the ingredients
of a dhaba. Without compromising with what a fine dining should be, Angeethi
is just the right place to address your Punjabi da khana need.

Located in seventh floor, this stand
alone is built to give a panoramic visual effect of the city. It is a thematic food station creatively shaped
into a Punjabi Dhaba with all its elements. Inviting and interesting Dabha
creativity. Transparent kitchen, emitting the essence of BBQ burnt flesh
and veggies are the complimentary
starters that follow a jar of beer or
full-bodied red wine or IMFL, adding
its glamour to this joint.

service
Known for its infectious pampering, it
has all extravaganza of hospitality.
Melodious old Hindi songs are at your
call

ideal for
Punjabi food lovers, Kitty parties, group
meetings and, of course, an adda for
gourmands.

A journey into the traditional South Indian cuisine, Dakshin, the signature restaurant of ITC at ITC Kakatiya truly lives up to its name. A culinary voyage that
takes you from Hyderabad to Goa and ends on the Malabar Coast.

food

ambience

The cuisine is authentic traditional
south Indian with delicacies featured
from Andhra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and
Karnataka. The menu is made of wood
and resembles a temple door; when
opened the pages inside are of silky
cloth revealing authentic Andhra Chapa
Vepudu (fish fillet in lemon n chilli),
Kori Gasi from Kerala, Mangalorean
Chicken Curry from Karnataka and Kozhi
Nelagu Curry from Tamil Nadu. Definitely give Iyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trolley a try.

Upon entering one notices the oil lamp
as a welcoming gesture. Once inside
one feels transported into a different
world; traditional instrumental Kannada
music playing, stewards walking around
in kurtas and lungis and paintings by
Thota Tharani depicting south Indian
dance and culture. The chandeliers are
made to look like temple bells and the
wooden chairs are intricately carved.
Musicians grace the evenings playing
the flute and mridangam on a small
stage.

service
The stewards dressed in traditional kurta
and lungi keep their hospitality traditional and impressive

Traditional style makes use of Indian
paintings, heavy wood furniture and wall
couches with shades of brown for an
earthen sensation; the silver ceiling is
illuminated with LEDs that lend it a
crimson hue and tiny spotlights illuminate the tables. The outdoor seating
offers a lawn with a panoramic view of
the surrounding area. Classical instrumental music keeps with the theme
and the paisley design show plates add
a beautiful touch to the tables.

service
Unmatched service owing to Ista training. Waiters wearing Jodhpuri Achkans
kneel to take orders to show respect.

An exotic mix of Hyderabadi, Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine, this restaurant also
serves the best haleem all throughout the year. Exquisite in its look and sumptuous in its cuisine, it is a must try.

food

ambience

Don’t forget to try the Raan – e – firdaus
and dal firdaus which are signature
dishes. Also try Haleem, Hyderabadi
Biryani, Shikampuri Kebab, Samudri
Platter, Peshawari Roganjosh, Lahori
Murgh. Vegetarians can try Balti Imli
Paneer and Anokhi Sabzi. The blend of
three cuisines within the menu has
been well balanced and gives enough
options to try one from each.

Exquisite in style, this restaurant is pure
with marble flooring, high ceiling,
wooden pillars, heavy drapes; well
carved chairs, Chandeliers and elegant
furnishing provide the perfect backdrop
for a delectable spectrum of gourmet
Indian cuisine. The live Ghazal during
the evening gels well with the ambience of the restaurant.

ideal for

service
The service is excellent with no doubts
on Taj’s established standards.

Word matters! Haldi, the sacred ingredient in Hindustani life, really matters. It
is a rendezvous where emotions meet with meat. It is a duet between palate
and plate. It is a blend of passion and pleasure. Finally it is a travel between
desire and destiny.

food

ambience

Enter Haldi to encounter ruminating experience. Miss not Joginder Kumar,
Senior sous chef who recreates Indian
fine dining – Ajwani Pomfret,Haryali
Kabootar, Murg chettinad, Alleppy fish
curry... Haldi also offers ‘Jet’ and ‘Express’ Lunch- a fulfilling and satisfying
dining experience in just 30 minutes
for those who need quick dining. The
chef generates home away home feeling in every morsel of romantic food
with a rare note of nutritional values.

Simply scintillating! Designed to cater
to food enthusiasts, this joint is built in
a pollution free-esthetic landscape –a
setting of a serene environment. The
lobby with modern interiors is spacious
and well lit with natural light during
the day. The warm atmosphere in the
hotel is appealing and adds to the stress
free, efficient and pleasant ambience.
If you want to know more about the
decor, check with Preeti Sood, Director- Marketing & Communication.

service

ideal for

Service personified in thought & deed.
Flood of Indian & imported Malt and
Martinis , whiskies and wines are served.

Friends, business. Nutritional food
knowledge is complimentary.

information

recommended

value

Seating: 60. Open round
the clock with a nocturnal break of midnight to
sunrise.

Haldi daawat, Haldi
Khaas and Haldi Zaika.
Phirnee is a must.

A family of four can enjoy a meaningful dinner
just for Rs.2000. Alcohol will add to the tab.

The grill just got a whole room for itself. Serving a wide array of tandoori items,
Grill Room is an offering from the Fusion 9 group and its culinary expertise
which tantalises you with its Indian way of being ‘grilled’.

With extensive use of brown shades for
its colour code, the ambience at Grill
Room is rustic and relaxed. Seating by
way of leather clad chairs is comfortable and elegant; the couch seating
under draped canopies has a Mediterranean look to it and is the best option
with its roadside views. Western pop
music paired up with panel lighting creates a light mood to experience the
culinary delights on offer.

service

ideal for

The staff is attired in traditional white
suits and serves you in a timely and
orderly fashion.

The magic of Hyderabad House’s Biryanis, its Kebabs, lukhmi’s took Hyderabadi’s
by storm when they first launched and the sheen has not yet faded. The magical flavours and taste still lingers and it is just growing.

food

ambience

Hyderabad House is renowned for its
Biryani as well as its mutton
Shikampuri Kebab’s and Mutton Lukhmi
apart from its rich curries which are
showcased within the take-away
counter. A signature outlet with every
restaurant. The pioneers of take-aways
and bain-marie concept in Hyderabad,
the outlet does a pretty hefty business
with the concept. The dining option at
this outlet is upstairs.

The latest addition to the Hyderabad
House chain of restaurants in the twin
cities, this outlet at Karkhana is a little
uplifted in terms of ambience. Lighting
is bright and there is a feel of space
around. The flooring is the usual tile
and cream is the colour code with wood
added to up the ambience.

service
Bowl-o-China, owned by the same
group is beside and the menu is alternated between both these outlets.

ideal for
Take-aways, families

information

recommended

Timing: 11.30 am to
11.00pm

Biryani, Shikampuri Kebab, Lukhmi

Cover: 86
30

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

value
Rs 250/ per couple

Masab Tank, Hotel Golkonda, Hyderabad.
Tel: 040-66110101

Jewel of Nizam

It has an aesthetic classical look with high quality furniture spread across the
spacious hall. Being an old restaurant, the place is known for its Mughalai and
Hyderabadi dishes.

food

ambience

The food served here is mostly South
Indian. The Andhra fried fish and the
chicken Majestic are delectable Andhra
style starters. Mahi Tikka Lasooni (garlic fish tikka) and the Kebab-e-Makhloot
(chicken tikka) are both prepared with
a delicious tinge of mustard. Veggies
can go for Chaman-e-Bahar (paneer in
cashew gravy) or Kadhai Sabzi. In the
main course, the Machhli Ka Salan and
Murgh Kandhari are the chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special.

Sober dim yellowish glare free low light
gives the hall a majestic look. A jewel
shop right at the entrance truly justifies the name. The place is well composed with posh seating sofas and dining furniture arranged in a dynamic
Nizami costume. The walls portray old
paintings of Nizam era. Live Gazzals are
conducted every Wednesday.

service

ideal for

Service is excellent and the waiters
treat you with royal hospitality.

Conversation; Dating; Family; Business
Meetings

information

recommended

value

Seating 72; Open Timing: 12:00Pm to 3.00
Pm and 6:00Pm to 12
midnight, Liquor Served

A charming pool side venue at the Leonia Resorts, Kebabs and Rotis has a
beautiful location and offers the best of tandoori creations served over candle
light dinners, with trickling waters by your side.

food

ambience

The menu is kept on a rotational basis
and is fixed for the day. They offer a
selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian tandoori delicacies to choose from
and serve you as much as you desire.
Some noted offerings are Hara Bhara
Kebab, Dakshin Kebab and Pahadi
Chicken Tikka, which can be enjoyed
with choice of Kashmiri Naan and
Masala Kulcha with Daal Makhani and
Chicken or Mutton Biryani.

In a completely outdoor setting, the
ambience here is unmatched in many
ways. The area is completely surrounded with trees and foliage and looks
beautiful in the evenings with the focus lighting creeping through. The
tables and chairs are draped in white
cloth, and there is also an option of
having your table setup in ankle deep
waters of the pool. The pool has lighting inside and the bubbling trickling
water is very soothing.

service
Service is well coordinated and the
beauty of the ambience fascinates you
enough to not really care about it.

ideal for
Family; Dating; Friends; Outdoors

information

recommended

value

Seating 150; Open
7pm-12am.
Live
Kitchen; Buffet

Tandoori delicacies;
Hara Bhara Kebab,
Dakshin Kebab

Dinner Rs.550 per person; Drinks Rs.400-500

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

33

Kebabs and Kurries

ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16
Tel.: 040-2340 0132

A relatively new establishment with the ITC chain of hotels, Kebabs and Kurries
was the second one to open in town after Mumbai; serves cuisines from the
North to the South of India.

food

ambience

Serving Indian cuisine from Northern
to the Southern regions, the kebab is
what you find here. Try Tandoori Jhinga,
Murg Angaar; Barrah Kebab and the
melt-in-your-mouth Pathar ka Gosht.
Special care is taken for the vegetarians with a separate green vegetarian
menu. The choices are amazing, with
some of the best tastes on offer-Pudina
Paneer Tikka, Hara Kebab Awadhi and
Dum ke Bhooley (paneer rolls stuffed
with vegetables and batter fried).

A traditionally themed restaurant, the
stone pillared space is done up in browns
and goldens, a warm and earthy combination of colours. The teak chairs and
some benches provide comfortable
seating; seating by the pool side offers
a nice view. Artefacts and expensive
carpets adorn the walls and are highlighted by yellow panel lighting. Instrumental hindi romantic tunes make your
moods nostalgic.

service

ideal for

The service is of the highest quality;
orders are presented, not served to you.

Bon appetite! The newly derived menu is a marriage between single Malts and
Meat. Pairing M& M, the F& B team crafted a menu which is a temptation. Dare
to resist! The signature cuisines generate war between body and mind.

food

ambience

Voltaire’s ‘Nothing would be more
tiresome than eating and drinking if
God had not made them a pleasure
as well as a necessity’ is truly translated in this joint. Live kitchen, enticing reception competing with Malt
and meat with the magical touch of
Chef Sanchit Kapoor is a worth encounter. Lal mirchi ka paneer tikka
with glen elgin, tandoori lobster with
taliskar and dum ka murg with glen
kinchie are paired to trap you.

Alluring ambience! An open window
to paradise. The only restaurant located adjacent to an in-house-lake.
While mellifluous songs of 60s & 70s
sink you, the dancing waves generate cool breeze that takes you to
heavenly experience. Oh, what a
perfect blend of nature and man-made
heaven!

ideal for

service
The pudding is in the eating, isn’t it?
Fall prey to the well designed net of
hospitality. Unlimited parking available.

Are you dating? Do you want to romance with foodies? Simply want to
chat with breeze and music. Be there!

The tandoor speciality Kebab Pavilion at Ellaa Suites is an open air venue which
permits you to take in the aromas from their live kitchen. Among all other
reasons, the best to be here would be the ambience.

food

ambience

One can enjoy tandoori cuisine at the
Kebab Pavilion; the selection of tandoori
kebab items is extensive and one must
definitely try a platter to savour all the
succulent tastes. Try some Boti Kebabs,
Tandoori Shimla Mirch and tender juicy
Pathar ka Gosht. Murg Makhani, Murg
Kali Mirch and Lamb Korma to be enjoyed with Naan and Dal Makhani.
Their special creation is the Kebab e
Jugalbandi, a blended kebab of chicken,
lamb and seafood.

Being entirely outdoors, Kebab Pavilion
offers an amazing experience in the
evenings. Overlooking landscaped lawns
with fountains creating a soothing ambience, the seating is by way of wooden
tables and chairs, very rustic; but there
is also seating in traditional Diwan style,
and offers a comfortable setting. The
smart tube lighting takes over in the
evening; candlelight on the tables and
Hukkas available.

service

ideal for

The live kitchen counter keeps you spellbound; the attentive staff takes care of
the orders perfectly.

Conversation; Friends; Dating; Family;
Outdoors; Non Vegetarians

Rating 4/5

information

recommended

value

Seating 68; Open 7pm11pm. Live Kitchen;
Valet; Catering; Liquor
Served

Bringing a discerning palate to the favourites of authentic Andhra cuisine, chefs
create a varied fare that brings the true spirit and culture of Andhra. Housed in
Fortune Katriya Hotel, Kuchipudi offers some great vareity of Telugu delicacies.

food

ambience

Showcasing its fullest Telugu varieties
in the breakfast Kuchipudi offers the
typical south Indian varieties such as
Royyala Vepudu, Promfret Podi chapa,
Mamsam vepudu and Kotimera Kodi are
the most lip smaking dishes that delight your hungry palate.

Named after the famous kuchipudi
dance form, the interiors of Kuchipudi
are inspired by the tradition and with a
variety of antiques from time; one will
have a true experience of Telugu. One
end of the restaurant is walled with
huge transparent glass with a clear
outside view which offers ample day
light ventilation. On the other end you
find green bushy plants decorated in the
middle of the hall which gives a natural inward look.

service
Dhoti-clad stewards provide prompt
service. Every requirement ordered is
promptly served with in minutes.

The largest restaurant in the chain of restaurants with 10,000 sq.ft, 240 cover
restaurant has been designed by the multi award winning design firm M/s
Sandeep Khosla and Associates from Bangalore.

food

ambience

Punjabi by Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary heritage
has always been rated high by food
connoisseurs all over the world. Savour
the finest and most authentic Indian
cuisine amidst modern service and contemporary ambience. Try their Kastoori
Kebab, Rann-e-Punjab, Meat Punjabi
by Nature- a Mutton dish, Murgh
Punjabi Masala, Lahori Masala Paneer
and Baby Vegetable with Masala Okra.

The restaurant is split into 2 levels with
a signature 30 ft waterfall forming the
focal architectural feature. With earthy
but contemporary looks, the restaurant
has oval metal design frames all over
enhancing the look of the outlet. Granite
flooring and wooden table tops with
silver cutlery and glassware, all add to
the feel of the restaurant.

service

ideal for

The service is impeccable and goes by
the standards of the chain Punjabi by
Nature.

Private meetings, Family, serious conversation

information

recommended

value

Seating capacity: 240
covers. Timing: 12.00
pm to 11.30 pm.

Kastoori Kebab, Rann-ePunjab, Meat Punjabi by
Nature

About Rs 600-700 for
a couple including
mocktails, starter, main
course and dessert.

‘The belly rules the mind’. The Spanish proverb proves it meaningfully at this
creative food palace on wheels. Literally you are in the lap of a luxurious coach
to taste the food and fun. Miss to regret!

Railway station-like location, replicas
of a luxurious coach lavishly laced
with extravaganzas of interiors and
staff dressed like typical British raj
stewards are sure to transport you to
a memorable album of dining. A
wholesome resurrection of a dining
in a train journey is waiting. It is right
time; rush to block your seat.

service
The hospitality is impeccable to the
core. Get pampered with their offers.
Ample car parking and exclusive lifts
add to the comforts.

ideal for
Family entertainment, whether own or
neighbours. No for privacy. Yes for gossip

information

recommended

value

124 seats11.00 am to
11.00 pm with a break
of 3.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
Reserve table and go.

The entire chain of Ohri’s restaurants have food which can never be questioned
on quality or sincerity. And their themed restaurants are a definite must to visit.
Serengeti is surely one of them.

food

ambience

It is an ideal restaurant for some great
Indian food and bread. Do not miss the
Tunda Kebabs, Kakori Sheekh, Cutlet
Shikampuri, Nimbu Chicken, Nehari
Gosht, Murg Jehangiri are a must try.
Also try their breads like Malai Warqi
Paratha, Sheermal and Taftaan. In dessert try Serengeti’s Dessert sampler.
The ambience of course is the main
catch.

The restaurant recreates the National
Park of Tanzania in style. There are
animals moving on pneumatic pressure. The restaurant also gives a great
view of the city’s skyline. It also has
diwan style seating in one section
which is typically low. Bar stools are
innovatively designed. There are vines,
sprawling banyans with hanging aerial
roots and all, authentic grunts and
growls in stereophonic sound. A great
experience with kids.

service
Dressed as forest officers, the service
is also efficient and innovative.

Probably the grandest place to dine,
especially for evenings, Siaa is unmatched in terms of ambience. Situated on the 4 th floor, with
conceptualised contoured seating arrangements, it presents unhindered
gorgeous views of Jubilee Hills area;
the glass wall spans all levels of seating; Black couches are paired up with
black table mats with glitterati on
them. Natural lighting does the trick,
but evenings are a sight to behold. The
entrance door...Gigantic.

Adorned with transparent exterior glassy walls Spice of India is located centrally
at Hubsiguda cross roads. It offers multi-cuisine delicacies with specialised Indian dishes.

food

ambience

The Spice of India serves Chinese, Continental, Indian, Mughlai, Multi cuisine,
Muslim, North Indian, Sea food, Sizzlers, Snacks and South Indian delicious. Both vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes are served here. Unique
items on the menu are Kripsi corn,
American corn, Kebabs and Tangadi
Kebab ka Gulmarasha which is prepared
using stopping method.

Perched on the first floor, Spice of India, the exterior upper part of the building is walled with black glass curtained
with laced stripes. A wooden stair from
the ground leads you to the restaurant
on the top. The interiors are spacious
with wooden chairs and tables arranged
in a disciplined manner. The restaurant
has two portions inside one for general
public and the other for private diners.
With lot of ventilation during the day
the glassy walls give you an ambient
view of the outside greens.

service
Well qualified waiters dressed in white
and black costumes are appointed to
each section and provide quick service.

Stylish & contemporary Spice Junxion is a confluence, where the cuisines from
Andhra, Telangana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Hyderabad meet. It has
the best recipes from South India, adapted to a contemporary, light menu.

food

ambience

A feast for all senses, this 48–seater
restaurant serves South Indian cuisine
with a trendy twist. The restaurant has
a unique menu for Lunch, the Chef’s
Tasting menu - designed to give guests
a taste of South India on a platter. The
Tasting menu is a delightful spread of
10 Starters, 8 Main course items and
four Desserts served in a span of 40
minutes. Exclusive delicacy include
Meeka Pilla Miriyalu, order for which
needs to be placed 48 hrs in advance.

The ambience is very contemporary
with wooden flooring, cylindrical lighting and adequately lit. The seating is
well organized and the tables arrangement done to appease. Light music
flows through the restaurant and is
never disturbing.The best part about
the design of the restaurant is that it
has been planned in a clever manner
so as not to disturb service as well as
movement of guests.

service

ideal for

The restaurant is strongly staffed. You
even can check out the Pickle & Chutney trolley. The pricing is very smart.

The royalty of the Katriya De Royal hotel, this restaurant serves up delicacies
from the Indian cusine.

food

ambience

Offering the best of Indian royalty cuisines, the menu has Chaney Ke Hare
Kebab, Murg Bemisaal and Crab Potli
(spiced crabmeat stuffed with onions
and chillies) for starters. Delectable
tandoori creations such as Paneer
Hariyali, Achari Murg Tikka and
Reshmi Kebab are available. Machhi
Begum Bazar and Murg Kundan Kalian
make for good choices.

With a romantic mood setting in mind,
the restaurant is dimly lit with candle
light on every table. The mix of white
and brown shades keeps the ambience
warm and cozy. The furniture compliments the moods with its red shades
which pair up with the red tablecloth
and napkins. Bay windows on one side
offer views with large copperware
adorning the centre. Ghazals are played
here.

Phirni and Shahi Tukda for dessert.

ideal for

service
Stewards are dressed up in achkans to
complete the royal treatment.

Tadka is definitely high on design aspects, while keeping a balance with Mughlai
specialty too. With a hanged menu and a lift to the décor, the place is really
happening and Hyderabad knows it for sure.

food

ambience

The menu has a whole lot of Mughlai
specialities to boast of. Saboota Talwar
Kebab- tangy chicken-legs served
skewered on a sword with a flame lit
under them, Murgh Ghee Roast, Dum
Methi Murgh for the Non-vegetarians;
Papad roll Masaladar and Gomantak
Masaledar Sabzi in Maharashtrian style
are quite popular. For Dessert, try
Cocogulla and Tava Mithai Chaat.

The ambience is really the high point
of the restaurant. While the menu has
been tweaked, the restaurant has been
given a desert feeling in terms of ambience. The silver hammered half walls
and tables offer a great look. EPNS
cutlery is heavily used in the restaurant.

service

ideal for

Ohri’s group service is at its best out
here. There are 2 PDRs also for private meeting.

The food is what makes the place tick and it has been attracting people in huge
numbers. The ambience is sober but try Chutneys out for some great vegetarian
delicacies on offer.

food

ambience

Vegetarians unite. If there is one place
where the veggie people of the City of
Pearls flock to, it is Chutneys. Serving
South Indian, North Indian and Chinese
delicacies, the restaurant is known for
its Steamed Dosa cooked in Japanese
style without oil, Babai Hotel Idlli, a
speciality of Vijayawada served with
topped butter & ghee with four types
of chutneys. The Utappams, Upma and
South Indian Thali is also popular.

The Maple wood shade all around, brass
glassware, steel plates covered with
banana leaves, sober lighting...this
simple yet elegant ambience is what
has and still makes Chutneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of
the favourite joint. The essence of the
place comes out really through the
food. The place does not boast of stylish design elements and everything has
been kept to its minimal but required
limit.

service

ideal for

Service is adequate & efficient considering that the place operates on 3
floors.

The multi-cuisine restaurant of Inner Circle hotel is a well furnished spacious
restaurant which is circled by hotel rooms all around. The specialty of the
restaurant is that it offers purely Indian vegetarian delicacies.

Upon entering the hotel you find
leather coated black sofas to make
you feel comforted if you are to wait
for someone. The walls are donned
with unique threat line artistic pictures which resemble the white
tracks on an athletic stadium ground.
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really tough to imagine what it
exactly depicts but definitely catches
your eye and makes you think for a
while.

service

ideal for

Well trained kitchen team offers you
prompt service and is rated outstanding. It offers valet parking service with
2 and 4 wheelers placed separately.

Serving authentic Rajasthani, Gujarati and Punjabi delicacies in Thaalis, Khandani
Rajdhani has made quite a reputation for itself; evident from their pan India
presence and the numerous food awards.

food

ambience

Serving authentic Rajasthani, Gujarati
and some Punjabi delicacies, the thaalis
served here come with 32 items; each
day has its unique fixed menu and is
followed across the country at all their
branches. Relish Dhoklas, Batatas,
Gattas, and a wide array of daals and
vegetable curries to go along with Jowar
and Bajra rotis, Fulkas and Paranthas;
the thaali is refilled as much as you
want.

Located in the food court of the Big
Bazar complex, the restaurant has kept
a simplistic ambience and provides a
spacious setting to dine in. Glass walling all round ensures adequate natural
lighting and nice views of the busy area
in the evenings. Simple wooden chairs
and wall benches make up the seating; the colour code is yellow and brightens the ambience. Pretty earthenware
along with Indian classical music
complements the traditional feel.

service
The servers in their charming yellow
waistcoats keep serving till you cant
have more; they are trained in sign language to communicate with each other.

Vegetarianism is growing all over world and for the conscious vegans Ohriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jiva
is a must visit vegetarianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise giving opportunity to cherish delicacies of
the North.

food

ambience

The restaurant is divided into two sections - the outside section is where you
can order eatables, reasonably priced
ranging from south Indian delicacies,
parathas, frankies, even Chinese food
and wood fire pizza, while the inner
section is where the buffet is laid out.
Here the cuisine has a Rajasthani bias.
Some of the star delicacies include
Ghatte ka saag, Dalbaati chorma, Kadi
pakodi are the unique Rajasthani food
variants that gives a different treat.

The interiors are artistically decorated
with aesthetically soothing lights that
enhance your appetite. The display of
ethnic copperware and toys from
Rajasthan on the floor will leave you
wondering in the midst of your dining.
In the deep of the hall there is lavishly
furnished enclosure for the private diners. Overall the whole ambience is a
feel of lively freshness that rejuvenates
not only new taste but also makes you
more youthful.

service

ideal for

Rownaque Ali, the manager is a perfect food guide to unfold the treasure
of buffet.

The sole outlet of the Belsons Taj Mahal, Melting Pot serves vegetarian Multicuisine fares, Indian and Chinese. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a cute place to visit and the food is just
too perfect.

food

ambience

Purely vegetarian creations coming out
from Indian and Chinese cuisines; the
most popular section of their menu is
South Indian with people craving for
Steamed, Fried or Button Idlis and
Neeru Dosa (rice and rava). During
lunch, fill up on the Gisi Bele Huliyana
(lentil and rice preparation) or go for
the Assorted Veg Kebab Platter. Have
Phulkas with Sabzi Harabhara; Naans
with Paneer Tikka Masala and Handi
Paneer.

The place is simple but smartly designed; for seating the chairs and wall
to wall couches in alternate blue and
orange colours are well coordinated.
The tables have glass tops and pebbles
are stored in the middle. Tiles and
pebbles are also noticed in the pillar
and wall panelling. The dĂŠcor is simple
but eye-catching; they just need to
impress with the food.

service
The service is nice and cordial; the servers in black shirts and pants look smart
and serve you politely and timely.

A dream of experiencing a dinner sitting under a tamarind tree can be accomplished here. Aptly named for its ambience ‘Tamarind tree’ is a diner’s paradise
housed in Yatri Nivas specialising in pure vegetarian food.

All trees in the surroundings—Neem,
Banyan and Peepal, but one tree that
attracts you is the huge Tamarind
trees...thus the name. The restaurant
has two parts, one the open air and
the other is the air-conditioned enclosure. Open air area is beautifully lit with
small sulphur lights in the evenings
while the inside area is lit with glare
free green radium lights and has accommodating two tables in each.

service
It just takes 15-20 minutes to serve
you the order. The service is caring and
the stewards attend every request with
a broad smile on their faces.

ideal for
Families with children; Business discussions; Dating; Executives.

‘Utsav’, a Biligiri venture is housed in a splendid construction of yesteryears. It
is a multi-cuisine restaurant and specialises in serving pure vegetarian food with
a blend of tradition and contemporariness.

food

ambience

The restaurant offers a multitude of
dishes including South Indian, North
Indian, and even try Mexican tacos,
Nawabi Charri Tarkari, Aloo 65,
Badami Paneer Pasanda which is an
Awadhi delicacy made of cottage and
cheese simmered in rich almond sauce
and Dahi Ka Kofta a chef’s creation
made of yoghurt laced with aromatic
sauce. North Indian varieties include
Paneer Tikka Lababdar, Kaju Paneer,
and Tadkewali dal...There’s more.

Up on entering the glassy door you will
find a circular central hall with four huge
pillars on the four sides. The floor is
spread with white marble and the ceiling is high raised with transparent
sunroof that gives in ample ventilation.
On the right a spiral stair case leads to
a raised seating meant for Private diners lit with dim lights. The central hall
is decorated with dining tables arranged in a sequence to accommodate
4 to 6 people on each.

service

ideal for

Always wearing a smile, the waiters
are dressed in white tops and ash colour
pants. Knowledgeable and experienced.

China revisited! Be at ease with Chinese delicacies prepared by Indian chefs,
without missing the rudiments of spices and flora & fauna. It is a bonafide
location to address your Chinese tastes.

food

ambience

Fish, to taste right, must swim three
times - in water, in butter, and in wine
- Polish Proverb. True, reinvent sea
food. Steamed Pomfret, Prawn salt
& pepper, Crab meat fritters, and
shrimps dancing in Hunan style are a
few to quote. Crackling spinach with
almonds, imperial vegetable with lettuce are for veggies. And you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
get away without trying Dim Sum,
spicy fragrant Chicken in Beijing style
and Garlic noodle tossed in butter.

Blue Diamond is the kind of place you’d go to for an unhurried meal. The
uncluttered décor - invites you to stay a while over your lunch and do a thorough job of sampling the favorites.

food

ambience

The menu has on it a couple of musthaves in every section: soups, appetizers, the main course, and even dessert. Don’t miss Crispy Chicken or the
Chicken Pakoda. Vegetarian Spring
Rolls and the Mandarin Fish are also
popular. For main course, try soft
noodles with Crisp-Fried Vegetables in
spicy sauce, or the Chicken, Baby-Corn
and Bamboo-Shoots Soft Noodles. The
Special Mixed Soft Noodles, with
chicken and prawns, is recommended.

The Interiors are simple, but their systematic arrangement looks like a great
feeling. It’s spacious with large tables
to sit and enjoy with entire family. Visiting the hotel in the evening gives you
a feel of really entering into the ’Blue
Diamond’. When it comes about the
food, you can just enjoy with various
soups available there. Especially carrot soups that taste are never forgettable. Well designed and Rich hostage
feels you to visit again and again.

service

ideal for

Serving is interesting and they give special care to children. The waiters
dressed in red are inviting and mingling.

To taste something Oriental, Chinese Pavilion is the perfect place which offers
you sizzling Chinese delicacies. Directly placed opposite to Vengal Rao Park, it
attracts the visitor.

food

ambience

The Chinese cuisine includes Sea Food,
Butter Garlic Lobster, Squids and Crabs.
Dry pepper crab is the most famous
dish liked by many. The other items on
the menu include Bobby cube Pomfret
which is a fish (grill kind) fried and
served with sizzling effect.

Cruised down in the basement of the
building the place is well furnished with
high quality furniture. Wide mirror installed on the walls makes the interiors bright and looks more spacious.

service

ideal for

Dressed in dark blue costumes the servers all look alike with a Chinese complexion. With a warm welcome they
guide us to a table and make us feel
comfortable. With a little waiting time
the orders are delivered on the table.

It is a perfect place for Executives; Dating; college crowd; Family; Business
discussions; Budget diners and Nonsmokers.

To most people Oriental cuisine translates just Chinese food. But at Ohri’s Far
East you get the choicest of culinary jewels from Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia,
Thailand, Korea and of course, China.

food

ambience

The menu springs choice after superb
choice. All conjured up with exotic ingredients like Sambai Olek Paste, Napla
Sauce, Shao Scheng Wine and Japanese ‘Sake’ sourced from the Orient.
The spread here is huge. Try out Far
East Chicken, Veg. Crispy Corn Chilli
Pepper, veg. Fried Wanton, Fried Ice
Cream, Dragon Prawn/Chicken, Golden
Fried Prawns, and Barbecue Chicken.
They also have quick lunches as well
as a live grill concept.

Far East is airy, filled with soft colors
and lots of comforting space between
tables. Taking its cue from the harmony that’s so much a part of all that’s
Eastern, Ohri’s Far East has been designed along the concept of ‘yin and
yang’. Its ambience replete with bonsai, unique oriental lamp shades, the
gush of water at the entrance, the
coordinated uniforms follows the tenets
of ‘Feng Shui’, that advocates relaxation of the stressed mind and body.

service

ideal for

Service is brilliant. The open kitchen
as well as the ‘Teppanyaki’ counter allow for an interactive experience.

Golden Dragon, Taj’s authentic Chinese Restaurant, draws inspiration from its
namesake, the symbol of the Emperor, of Royalty, and Grandeur, serving the
best of Szechwan and Canton Cuisines fit for the Kings.

food

ambience

Guests can savour the aromatic flavours
of authentic Schezwan cuisine amidst
views of lush gardens. Chinese master
chef Hung Fung Ng has carved some
amazing delicacies from the four regions of Schezwan, Cantonese, Unan
and Beijing. Try Express YumChas on
Sundays with a 11 course set for Rs
695 only. Also try Dimsums, Soups,
Lobster in XO sauce and Tiger Prawns
delicacies. The restaurant also offers
live noodle making displays.

Colours of the restaurant have been
derived from the dynasties of China.
The chairs have typical symbols that
depict prosperity, spring, long life and
luck. Heavily carpeted the Chinese lanterns are prominent. Dim lighting adds
to the ambience and the heavy silk
drapes give a luxurious touch.

service

ideal for

Service is fast, clean and well mannered going by Taj’s signature standards.

Fifty plus and still maintaining the same taste and charm, Nanking is among
the most familiar name and brand in Hyderabad renowned for its authentic
Chinese delicacies.

food

ambience

A cozy outlet with minimal design,
Nanking is know for its delicacies. It is
a restaurant that has amazingly maintained its supremacy in the Oriental
bracket of restaurants. Ginger Chicken,
Prawns dry, Fish dry, Boneless Chicken
dry are some of its delicacies one should
not miss. Also try Crispy Chicken, and
the wanton dishes, especially the soups.
Bamboo-Shoot Noodles with Roast
Pork is classic, but the noodles also go
great with the Vegetable Chow.

The design is minimal and with 150
plus covers, the place is still small,
nevertheless one of the popular joints
in town. Nanking is usually crammed
with office-goers on their lunch-break,
so it tends to be noisy. The lighting is
dim but adequate.

service
the service is satisfyingly quick, the
portions are generous (and reasonable),
and the food is simply yum

A classy restaurant serving Chinese and Thai delicacies, this is surely one place
you should not miss while trying out Oriental experiences in food when in
Hyderabad.

food

ambience

Serving some of the most authentic
fare from the orient especially Thai and
Chinese, try the Thai Green Curry &
Red Curry, Pla-rad-Prik, Kung Pao
Chicken, Dragon Chicken, Shangdong
Fried rice, Dimsums, Tofu & Corn Kernel with hot garlic sauce.Red dots
obligingly indicate the level of spice
you can expect in each dish. The Thai
curries are excellent you can’t go
wrong with any of them.

The restaurant is ambient and elegant
with white marble flooring and a colour
theme of dark Maroon, typical yet stylish to give you a sophisticated oriental
feel. The lighting is pleasant and not
to disturbing in terms of its brightness.
Cozy seating and impeccably laid tables
add to the ambience. It definitely is an
example in itself to show the design
levels met by the Taj group in each
and every restaurant of its. Verdict is
clear - Strings look good.

service
Every aspect right from the food, the
ambience and the perfect service has
Taj’s signature.

This oriental delight is situated in the newly christened Fortune Select Manohar;
a small but beautiful restaurant, which serves Pan Asian cuisines, its exquisiteness far exceeds its lack of size.

food

ambience

Cuisines on offer are Chinese, Japanese,
Thai, Malaysian and Indonesian. For
vegetarian starters try the Shanghai
Chilli Paneer and for non-vegetarians,
the Prawn Tempura and Thai Chicken
Satay The main course has some authentic palates such as the Kaeng Phek
Phak (vegetables in Thai red curry) and
Khao Suey (Burmese meal in a bowl).
Sliced Chicken in Oyster sauce and
Hunan Lamb are delicious. Oriental
Pavilion Prawns are the Chef’s special.

With soft light emanating from pretty
glass lanterns, the instrumental music
humming in the background and the
red and maroon of the décor, the interiors give a very cozy feel. Beautiful
craftsmanship is showcased with the
small oriental figurines on each table,
the artistic Chinese vases in the corners, and the splendour of the Chinese
fan and Buddha carving hung across
the walls. A truly ‘scenic’ dining experience, visually appealing.

service
Service efficiency is great due to the
small size of the restaurant; stewards
are well trained and groomed.

ideal for
Conversation; Dating; Variety

information

recommended

value

Seating 34; Open
12:30pm-3:30pm,
7pm-11pm.
Live
Kitchen; Liquor served

Al Fresco is basically the lawns of the
Taj Krishna. The restaurant is open only
in the evenings, and comprises about
10-12 tables and 3 larger ones to seat
groups. A small pool and a rather vast
grass-bed add to the spacious and airy
ambience (plus a live kitchen with the
coals, plates and clay). They are also
planning to fill their aquarium with Koi
fish, which can live for centuries – one
survived for 226 years!

service

ideal for

Good service. You can even get Golden
Dragon and Encounters menu to be
served here.

The new lounge and dine option at the Ellaa Suites Hotel, Alchemy brings in
unique cuisines from the island nations of Fiji and Hawaii, something that is
pretty new to Hyderabadis.

food

ambience

With tropical island cuisines, the first
thing to try is their cocktails served in
authentic ceramic bowls and mugs. For
starters try some Dali Dali (chicken
satay), Bali Miki (lamb, capsicum n
onions) and Jamaci (chicken liver and
walnuts stuffed in chicken slice and
deep fried). Main course delights include Chicken Apekela (pineapple
sauce) & Wai Kiki Special (chicken and
shrimp on soft noodles)

The ambience has a very lounge like
feel to it indoors; the outdoor seating
amongst foliage and water fountains
takes you to a tropical paradise. Depending on your mood, choose between
these two contrasting ambiences.
Separating the two is cascading water
flowing down the glass walls. From the
outside, looks like a waterfall, from inside, looks like rain. Flame red panel
lighting behind the bar and inside the
marble bar-top warms up the place.

service
The service is good with adequate serving times; the bartender provides the
best service with your drinks served in
ceramic ware.

A 24-hour global eatery themed around Mediterranean and serving international
delicacies; it is a perfect place for expatriates and those seeking a change in
spice and cuisine.

food

ambience

Encounters, an all day dining restaurant, offers buffet meals as well as an
a-la-carte menu showcasing international favourites. The interactive
counter serving pastas, pizzas, dosas
and pancakes make the single diner
comfortable. The bet could be on
Jalapeno Cheese Poppers, Thin crust
pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, Thai
Prawn curry, Italian Rissotto. For an
Indian taste, try Jinga Moilee, Keema
Pav. Serving both Buffet and a-la-carte,
the spread is diverse from Pastas to
Nassi Gorain (Indonesian). They even
have a regional cuisine concept during
lunch time.

This inviting restaurant offers vibrant
dĂŠcor as well as delightful fare from a
variety of popular cuisines. Black &
white polka dots inspired from Italian
designs, Jaliwork, pillars with perforated
lighting going back to the Mughlai architecture, Horizontal wooden and Italian marble flooring all give a certain
exquisite look and feel.

service
No lenience in lending an exclusive service oriented approach.

World food is at your call!! Take a culinary tour around the spreads, encounter
the chefs, and witness the kitchens while enjoying your favourite global cuisines which tempt the senses with a wonderful array of flavours.

A new venture from the Fusion 9 group, the F9 Diner is a much welcomed
change in the city’s dining scene; setup mainly to cater to Hi tech city’s hungry
professionals, this venue has a lot to offer in cuisine and in space.

With 250 covers capacity, this restaurant is as big as they can be. Done up
completely in white, the colour radiates freshness and purity. The wooden
tables look very café-like and with the
white couches and chairs, forms an
integral part of the colour code. There
is an option of outdoor seating on the
terrace, with a separate glass enclosed
section for the Hukka smokers. Soft
lounge music plays its tunes, while
LCDs are ready for sports action.

Themed like an upscale diner, Fusion 9
has interiors done up in crĂ¨me and
brown for an elegant yet cosy outlook.
The leather clad chairs and couches
are comfortable and create a loungelike environment in some areas; this is
accentuated by the lounge music predominantly played here. Glass wall on
one side gives nice road-side views while
glass on the other side gives a full view
of the kitchen proceedings. The central bar is nicely highlighted.

service

Rating 4/5

Service is professional and timely; Sunday brunch gets the stewards to your
table with pizzas and starters

ideal for

Conversation; Dating; Variety; Family;
Friends

information

recommended

value

Seating 110; Open
12pm-4pm, 7pm-12am

Iranian Joojeh Kebab
(chicken in creamy saffron base)

Couple Rs.700-800;
Drinks Rs.500-500

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

85

The Golkonda hotel, Masabtank, Hyderabad-28.
Tel: 66110131

Melange

As its meaning says Melange at Golkonda Hotel is a perfect place for the people
to mix. Truly it’s an ideal place for the families to enjoy buffets at lunch and
dinner. Exclusive multi-cuisine buffets are a unique specialty of this restaurant.
It’s also a coffee shop functioning round the clock for 24 hours.

Situated in the atrium of the hotel, the
location makes Melange a sight to behold. It has lounge coffee shop that
looks glossy with the face-lift. A huge
screen mounted overhead to watch TV
on is just one of the bells and whistles.
The hotels inner structure is studded
with blue-lit windows of the corridor
on each floor. The coffee shop is done
up in white shades of purple adding a
nice contrasting blend.

service

ideal for

The hotel staffs are always at your service, looking out to fulfill any dining
needs of the customer.

Perched on the Bank of Hussainsagar lake, Ohri’s100 Degrees is known for its
Sizzler varieties and has created a unique niche for itself when it comes to
global cuisine.

food

ambience

It offers a Global Cuisine with Sizzler
Specialization. The specialties range
from Indian, Chinese and Desert varieties. You would love to dig into to the
place to grab a quick delicious crunchy
burger. Awesome Gujarathi food which
is a delight for your taste buds is a
unique dish here. The mouth watering
Sabudabna Kichdi available is exotic.

Up on entering you will witness a glass
cage with a unique arrangement of
bottles of wine arranged in a zig-zag
manner, some are thrown on the pebble
floor of the glass cage and some are on
the shelves. The look is unique and eye
catching. Entrance is calm and spacious place with wide sofas for seating. The floor tiles are broad and
coloured in light brown giving the interiors an aesthetic look. The ambience
is exuberant, what works in its favor is
its location on Necklace road.

service
Unlike serving from palate to plate
‘Ohris 100 degrees’ discovered a unique
style of serving the hot palate directly
to the table. Any order will not take
more than 15 minutes.

ideal for
Conversation; Dating; Family; Business
Meetings; Value for Money

Though the restaurant is relatively
small, it makes up well in terms of the
ambience and experience it offers. It is
designed in a tunnel shape, resembling
the gothic style of architecture of Europe; and the floor is done up to resemble the cobble stone streets.
Wooden cafĂŠ style chairs and a wall to
wall couch take care of seating. Yellow panel lighting gives the place a
warm hue and the lounge music keeps
the moods tranquil.

service
The place prides itself for the professionally trained and skilled staff; presentation skills are good. They accept
foreign currencies also!

A new entrant in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant scene, Sweet Nirvana brings to you European delicacies as good as they come with specialised desserts.

food

ambience

Offering a wide array of continental
fares, the menu has starters such as
Lamb Meatballs and Beer Battered
Vegetables. Then you can make your
own sandwich with their in-house
baked bread. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fusilli and Vegetables in Alfredo Sauce and Lamb Lasagna in pastas and many choices for
steaks as well. Desserts are a speciality with Molten Lava Chocolate Cake
and Hazelnut Roulade with Strawberry
Mousse.

With a majority of seating outdoors in
the open, the place offers a unique dining experience. The gazebo style seating planned under canopy tents is very
Euro in its style and tranforms you into
a different land. A very chilled out and
relaxed environment accentuated by the
western tunes that play in the background. The cane furniture allows a bit
of ease and gives a very lounge like feel.
A small stage takes care of cultural
events and live shows.

service
The service is un-hurried, mainly to let
the guests relax in the cool lawns and
soak in the ambience offered.

Thank God It’s Friday! But you can have some good fun on any day at TGIF. It’s
finally here in Hyderabad and brings with it the tastes and traditions of American Family Dining.

food

ambience

An American diner serving up the
favourite palates of USA; choose between Chicken Fajita Nachos, Chicken
Wings and Fried Mozzarella to start your
gastronomic experience. Try a real
hamburger like Jack Daniel’s Burger
or Bacon Cheeseburger. Fill up on a
Strip Steak with choice of sauce and
side. The more daring should opt for
their Baby Back Pork Ribs with Jack
Daniel’s sauce; keep napkins handy.

The looks of the place are typically
what one would find if they went to a
TGIF in USA; it’s an American diner,
and has been meticulously designed
that way. Lots of posters, paintings and
sports sculptures create a vibrant and
energetic environment. A full size canoe hangs in the middle of the place,
being the centre of attention. One side
offers a glass wall and a roadside view.
The bar looks good and serves some
imported stuff too; overhead flat screens
for the sports enthusiasts.

service
The American spirit is evident in the
servers’ manners; cheery and jovial,
with checked shirts and overalls, sporting numerous badges called Flairs.

A restaurant with a complete outdoors theme, Steaks and Sizzlers at the Leonia
Resorts offers an ambience under the starlit night sky, and culinary delights of
steaks and sizzlers; a perfect venue for a romantic candle light dinner.

food

ambience

The cuisine offers steaks and sizzlers
of all kinds; for the want of privacy
stewards are not deployed here, instead
the chef comes to your table and takes
your preference for orders. The chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
recommendations go a long way in deciding if one wants a vegetable, paneer,
meat or seafood of steak or sizzler creation. Introducing a small mobile
kitchen, so the chef can prepare your
food in front of you.

Situated in complete outdoors, with the
night sky as the endless ceiling and the
natural foliage for walls; the dining experience is such that one feels they
are having a lovely dinner in the forest.
Each table has its own privacy as each
section is surrounded by trees and foliage, secluded from each other. The
chairs and tables draped in white with
red table cloths look very elegant; the
candle light adds to the charm with
the instrumental music.

Rating 4/5

service

Ultimate privacy is on offer as no stewards are deployed here. Chef comes to
take your order preferences and returns
only to serve your order.

Perched on the 4th floor Aroma is an
excellent restaurant for the families to
visit and enjoy the evenings. The ceiling is low with different intensity lights
lit around the corners of the ceiling.
The central hall has a fountain with
water pouring in the centre. There are
2 Private Dining Rooms with 10 and
20 capacities each. A spacious lounge
area is the place to enjoy drinks. Children play area, mineral water plant are
the added features.

service
Service is excellent with waiters attending promptly for every request. Valet
parking and advanced booking are the
other facilities available.
Valet parking, Advanced booking option,
Liquor is served.

Situated in the quite area of Jubilee Hills Rd No 36, Chhattees is a modern
venue for dining; with a choice of seating indoors or on the terrace. 36 Bar-B-Q
is its rooftop venue with indoor and outdoor seating and specialises in barbeque
cuisine.

food

ambience

Offering Indian and Oriental palates, the
menu boasts of Pepper Chilly Chicken,
Tandoori Pomfret and Galauti Kebabs.
The crispy Red Pepper Corn and the
Veg Dim Sum make some good Chinese vegetarian dishes. The Mutton
Roganjosh and Kumbh Makai Takatak
is popular. The menu at 36 Bar-B-Q
offers only buffet options; sample from
a delicious variety of kebabs and
tandoori delicacies. Then follow it up
with a multi-cuisine buffet.

Browns and whites dominate the
colour themes; brickwork implemented
in the design looks upmarket. The ceiling is quite high and gives a spacious
atrium like feeling. The terrace offers
the outdoors and pleasant lawns around
can be seen from there.The rooftop
seating has both outdoor and indoor
options and the terrace seating is beautiful. Good views are available throughout the day here. The bar looks classy,
offering a wide range of liquors.

service

ideal for

The service is satisfactory but with the
enormous number of covers it can get
patience testing during busy times.

The newly established restaurant in Jubilee Hills, 45 brings to your palate a
multi-cuisine fare, with specialised authentic Chinese. And why will it be different from others? Well, nothing much, but another excuse to a fresh new place.

food

ambience

Though serving multi-cuisine Indian and
Oriental fare, 45 Jubilee specialises in
some serious Chinese food. The Konjee
Crispy Lamb and Keong’s Chilli Chicken
are succulent starters to begin with;
there’s also Devil’s Chicken, Tsing Hoi
Chicken and Chicken Tai Pai is the speciality. Indian fare offers delectable Murg
Peshawari and Gosht Hari Mirch Do
Pyaza, best followed with Bengali
sweets. Lunch buffet is good with 4
non-veg and 6 veg main dishes.

An unfussy yet modern themed diner,
the ambience follows a chequered
black and white colour pattern with red
table cloths for a complimenting colour
contrast. The seating is ample and spacious with comfortable leather couches
lending a feel of luxury. The bright lighting coupled with the mix of peppy and
classic tunes keep your moods high and
happy. The available garden seating
adds the finishing touch to the setting.

service

ideal for

Service is good and being a brand new
place lives up to the expectations of
customers.

Aangan is an inviting Multi-cuisine fine dining restaurant under the shade of a
huge tamarind tree. Specialised in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food
varieties, it’s worth visit for its casual look and ‘hitting’ food.

food

ambience

It offers some of the most delicious and
most popular dishes across the country. Try Veg starters like Paneer Tikka,
Seek Kebab, and Chilli Paneer are great
to taste. Kadai Paneer, Paneer Butter
Masala, Mushroom Masala, Aloo
Methi, Green Peas masala are among
the veg items while Angari chicken,
Chicken chatpat, Andhra Kodikura and
Mutton Kalimirch are the non-veg items
under Gharka khana.

Aangan is a veritable example of a comfortable and chic recluse. On entering
you will find a centrally raised dome
ceiling under which tables are arranged
in a circular fashion. Three large halls
from the central dome span on three
directions east, north and west have
low wooden ceiling. Over all the internal structure of the building is an exuberant architectural marvel. The floor
is donned with plane teakwood. Lamps
are glare free pouring their orange lights
all across the walls.

service
One can expect excellent hospitality
from the staff. Orders are served with
a minimum waiting time.

Located in the Lumbini Jewel Mall, Basil “a vegetarian affair” serves up a multi
cuisine fare which is purely vegetarian. A popular lunch time venue, it serves
up a good buffet spread and a varied menu for busy professionals.

With a mix of brown and crème decor
highlighted with blue lighting, the
place is done up quite nicely, giving the
place a warm and cool feel simultaneously. Comfortable seating around a
modern design, the ambience is very
pleasing. The bay windows provide
adequate lighting during the day and
also offer a great view of the surrounding Banjara Hills area. Though lunch
times are mostly crowded, night time
makes for a different scene with dim,
soft lighting and instrumental love songs
with candle light put on some nights.

service
The service is good and responsive. The
bartender makes some incredible
mocktails that you can enjoy.

ideal for
Conversation; Family; Value for Money

information

recommended

Seating 120; Open
12pm-3:30pm, 7pm11pm

Baga Sizzler (marinated
grilled paneer served over
English vegetables)

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

value
Couple Rs.400-500
Buffet Lunch Rs.169,
Weekend Rs.210
105

JW Marriot Hotel, Tankbund road, Hyderabad.
Tel.: 040 - 27522577

Bidri

Where are you? Bidri is calling!! Call it resurrection of food etiquettes or the
exuberant way of dining or an epitome of creativity. It is a perfect blend of a
model restaurant. Venture out to redefine your dining experience.

food

ambience

Welcome to this church of fine dining!
The concept of ‘Nawabi Isshtyle’ is
seen in every nook and corner. Culinary
delights will keep you at the edge of
the seat while having Ambada Jhinga,
Bidri Dal, Dahi Ki Chutney, stuffed
kulcha, Khubani ka meetha, Sev Jelabi
aur kulfi, Uroosa. Be watchful if
“Santosh” is serving you-he just loves
to add extra flesh to your body.

Bidri is styled after the famous local
handicraft. The interiors are done up
in vibrant red, with bidri work. With
its dark interiors, wide chairs and lac
bangle napkin-rings, the restaurant
surely reeks of sophistication.Tables
topped with steel sheets and wooden
chairs add to the whole decor. One
cannot miss the Tikri work from
Rajasthan at the entrace and the pillars nearby.

service
Hospitality to its helm and it is the
hallmark. Rajneesh, restaurant operational manager, is an outstanding guide
who helps you to explore fine dining.

ideal for
Ideal for PEN (Poets, Essayist, Novelist), any re-unions, family -get-togethers
and, of course, for corporate extravaganzas too.

information

recommended

value

Seats 64. Time:
12:30-3:30 pm and
07:00 pm -11-30 pm.

Melting pot concept. You
can dine and drink as
much as you can from
12.00 noon to 6.00 pm.

Sunday ‘Melting Pot’ is
just for Rs. 1500 with
free pour of IMFL. Weekdays a-la-carte.

The latest foray of the Minerva Group into the lounge and fine-dine segment,
Bleu is a masterfully designed and implemented establishment. With side by
side options of lounge and dine, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a charming wine, dine and unwind venue.

food

ambience

The restaurant serves a blend of Indian, Oriental and Continental. The
Kalmi and Murg Angara Kebabs are
delicious and best followed up with Veg
Jalfarezi, Paneer Shahi Korma, or Methi
Machhli, Jheenga Kalimirch. The Oriental fare is the speciality with Sliced
Fish in Hot Ginger Plum sauce, Chicken
in Spicy Hoisin sauce and Panang Pla
(Fish in Thai Red Curry). Finish the
meal with scrumptious desserts like
Berry Cheesecake and Tiramisu.

Entering the main door one can choose
between the lounge and dine areas,
separated by a wall of wine racks. The
diner is themed to its name, with numerous blue lamps hanging from the
ceiling, creating a complete blue aura.
The whites of the chair cushions and
tablecloth reflect the blue and blend
in. Periodically the lights change
colours and the aura transitions from
one to another. Smooth instrumentals
keep your mood satiated. The Lounge
has a long bar with snazzy stools.

service

ideal for

Service is grand, keeping with the standards set by the Blue Fox legacy

The Blue Fox name is synonymous with quality; which is evident in its presence
in Hyderabad for more than 20 years. The Minerva Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship establishment with multiple locations, this outlet at the Minerva Grand is the sleekest of
them all.

food

ambience

Serving Indian, Oriental and some Continental flavours, the menu here prides
itself on serving some of the best Chinese in town. Hunan Chicken and
Singapore Prawns are the starters to
order; Chilly Garlic Noodles and Ginger Capsicum Fried Rice are best tried
with some Chicken in Chilly Oyster
Sauce. The Tandoori platter offers a
wide selection and is sure to be enjoyed by everyone. Stuffed Chicken with
Olive Sauce is delectable.

The restaurant bears a very modern
look. A mix of browns and crĂ¨mes, the
ambience at once pleases the senses,
much before the food can play its part.
Aesthetically designed interiors show
the international touch; the plush patterned carpet compliments the design
of the restaurant. Lighting has been
innovative with a mix of lamps and
panel lights, giving a soft yellow aura
which is heightened by the romantic
instrumentals playing.

service
The stewards suited up in black waistcoats are professional to the core and
take care of your orders perfectly.

The garden restaurant in the Celebrations Food Villa, Cascade is a Gazebo style
venue, perfect for evenings with friends or family not just because it gives an
oriental garden outlook but also a great cuisine fare too.

food

ambience

Serving multi-cuisine fare, the menu
offers options ranging North and South
Indian and Oriental delicacies. One can
relish vegetarian delights with the Sabz
Seekh Kebab and Paalak Dahi Kebabs.
The non-veg Tandoori platter makes for
a great choice in starters also. The
regular Chinese creations are available
and the Mongolian Chicken is worth a
must-try with some Fried Rice. Andhra
specials like Guthi Vankaya (eggplant)
and Sambhar Rice are favourites here.

The gazebo setup has the outlook of
an oriental garden, with water cascading down into a small pond; crossing it
is a meandering bamboo bridge that
leads to the pagoda looking structures
housing the seating arrangements.
Seating options vary in the individual
gazebos, and one can decide depending on privacy needs. The surroundings
are full of bamboo and foliage that keeps
oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senses close to nature.

service

ideal for

The service is timely, even when the
kitchen is some distance from the seating area

The multi-cuisine restaurant at the Ista Hotel; serving a perfect blend of fares
from around the world, in a setting befitting an oasis in the concrete desert of
Hi-Tech City.

food

ambience

A varied menu offers starters like
Tandoori Prawns, Soya & Orange Glazed
Chicken, Pear & Blue Cheese Salad;
with sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and
pastas, the main course also features
delectable Norwegian Salmon, Lasooni
Roganjosh and Paneer Narangi to name
a few. The menu also offers Japanese
Teppanyaki, Tempura and also Sushi
made to order.

Wine racks greet you at the entrance
and lead you to seating options both
indoors and out. Contemporary styling
makes use of heavy wood furniture with
shades of brown for an earthen sensation; surrounding glass walls allow adequate natural light while tiny spotlights illuminate the tables at night.
The outdoor setting amidst pleasing
foliage, offers a gazebo and a panoramic
view of the surrounding area. Dim
western tunes keep your moods light
and make the good times roll.

service
Servers in white tees and black slacks
take good care of guests.Private Seating, Valet, Catering, Reservations are
other value added services. Liquor
served.

Diaspora offers a blend of comfort, style and good food in an elegant setting
totally different from its nigh brothers at the Celebrations Food Villa. It is a place
showcased profoundly as pure and the food gives a great garnish.

food

ambience

The tastes of Indian and Oriental cuisines are available here; mouth watering Paneer Tikkas before some Kadhai
Veg or Veg Chatpata. Non vegetarians
could go for some Mutton Roganjosh
and the spicy Bhuna Ghosht Kalimirch.
South Indian specialities such as
Nelluru Chapula Pulusu and the spicy
Chicken Chettinadu are authentically
created. Spicy Crispy Lamb and Kung
Pao Prawns are good options in Oriental.

The theme of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;white and pureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is showcased here with all round white colours,
plush white leather couches, even white
foliage in white pots. The days see illumination with natural light and the evenings see the blue panel lights come
into effect; the cool blue hue relaxes
the senses and readies you for a great
meal ahead. Opulent lush interiors in
tune with fine dining, a combination for
a good evening.

service
The service is of fine dining standards;
the stewards are tidy and efficient, and
ever willing to assist you with anything.

The trendy restaurant beside Touch, Era marks a new beginning to fine dining
with exquisite dĂŠcor and some amazing collection of multi-cuisine delicacies on
the menu.

food

ambience

Serving Indian, Chinese, Continental
and Thai, Era has some great roll out
right from the starter to the dessert.
Vegetarians can try Tamatar dhaniya
shorba and for non-vegetarians there is
Marag-Lamb stock flavoured with potli
spices. Also try Andhra Royalu Vepudu,
Chepala Pulusu, Tandoori Batair and
Raan - roast leg of a baby lamb. Era
has a special item in dal called the dal
factory which is a signature dish. Pasta
lovers can try Noki Ala Gratin.

Soft lights, high chairs and the properly set dining table highlight Eraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
ambience. Designed by Sreekala Reddy,
the owner you will find plenty of drapes.
While there is not much of natural light
the clever use of artificial light is truly
worth appreciating.

service

ideal for

Being the latest entrant in the F&B
scenario, Era has left no stone unturned
in terms of delivering the best service.

A real treat to the senses of both sight and taste, transporting one into a traditional South Indian atmosphere and bringing in the beauty and heritage of
monuments in Hampi.

food

ambience

The fiery hot Atomic Chicken Wings,
Pepper Chicken and Murgh Pahadi
Kebab make for scrumptious starters.
Main course options include spinach &
mint gravy Murgh Tangdi Kothmeer,
Murgh Peshawari; the onion and tomato gravy, Murgh Punjabi and the vegetarian delight Nizami Handi, both
specialities of Hampi. Andhra delicacies such as Mamsam Chettinadu and
Royalla Pulusu are also available along
with Continental and Oriental fares.

Dining at Hampi is nothing less than
having oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meal inside a beautiful
South Indian monument. Walking in
through the grand wood carved gateway, the eyes will never stop noticing
the intricately carved woodwork used
in the establishment. The place is
adorned with traditional paintings, oil
lamps and temple bells; heavy wood
incorporates the pillars and the furniture. The central ceiling has glazed
glass tiles with the buffet spread underneath.

service
The service is good; the servers dressed
in white and black assist guests with
traditional hospitality.

ideal for
Conversation; Dating; Family; Value for
Money

information

recommended

value

Seating 180; Open
12pm-3:30pm, 7pm11:30pm. Live Kitchen;
Liquor Served

Nizami Handi - Hampi
Special (Mixed Vegetables in gravy)

Couple:
Rs.400500+Rs.300 for drinks

120

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Jal-Vihar, Necklace
Tel.: 9866778022

Havmor 70mm

Road,

Hyderabad

Perched on the banks of Hussain Sagar lake with greenery all around Havmor is
large and truly 70MM. Launched recently, it is the latest innovation from Ohri’s
Group. The theme is exclusively Bollywood.

With Bollywood bytes all around, the
ambience is exuberant. The entire restaurant is a combination of glass, steel,
wood and Fibre. From out its all white
on the top and bottom, while the
middle is a firm transparent glass
through which one can see statutes
arranged in a fighting stint flying in the
air that reminds you of a typical Hindi
filmy fight. The interiors are excellently
decorated with pink beaded strings
hanging from the ceiling and with multiple colour mix all around.

service
With extreme comfort the stewards
guide you throughout and offer excellent service with utmost care.

ideal for
Variety, Health conscious, Non-vegetarian and value for Money.

information

recommended

value

Seating 180; Timings:
11am to 11pm

Cold Stone Ice Cream,
70MM Dosa (4-feet
long), Shakes and Chillers.

Rs500-600 per couple

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

121

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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

There is no love sincerer than the
love of food. ~George Bernard
Shaw, “The Revolutionist’s Handbook,” Man and Superman
Cornelis M.Keur is a Bon vivant! An
epicurean!! An epitome of IndoAmerican friendship!!!
All sthat said, what confuses me
was his wife Sommay’s motherly
attitude? Who is better? She is another show piece that resembles her
husband’s vibe in thought and
deed, but with a slight exception.
While Cornelis M.Keur says that he
lives to eat whereas his wife eats to
live, a subtle difference but very
interesting factor for this writer to
weave a story. Kees (that’s what his
friends address him) is humble to
say what he is. There was no element of artsy fartsy in presenting
himself. Believe me, he is a different breed flew from the USA to
establish a new era in Indo-American friendship which is likely to
dawn a new chapter, thanks to Dr.
Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, the Chief
Minister of Andhra Pradesh, who
played a key role in establishing
American consulate centre in
Hyderabad to benefit Andhrites in
many ways.
Flash back! An email requesting
Cornelis M.Keur to join celebrity dinner was very promptly responded.
When I asked him what type of
food Mrs. & Mr. Cornelis M.Keur
will have for the dinner, his response mail was: “Both of us are
omnivores except my wife eats no
mutton. Cheers”.

E

xecutive Chef. Perumal
Ramachandran, meditatively
crafted a six course meal to
pamper the guest.
BMW, carrying the goodwill ambassador and his wife, silently landed. While
Sanjeev Tiwari, General Manager,
Aditya Hometel, welcomed the guests,
laughter and bouquets were exchanged
generously. Well appointed private dining room turned a live-food- station with
tongue -teasing welcome drink.
“Sorry sir, today being dry day, we are
unable to serve wines”, I pleaded.
“It is fine. We should honour the law
of the land”, was his response.
(Though he enjoys diplomatic immunity he was humble to say so)
The welcome drink Aam Ka Panna
widened the hospitality and refreshed
the palate. Cheers echoed in the ambience. Within no time appetizer,
Padam Shorba, creamy-milky almond
soup, accompanied by starters Chicken and fish from BBQ and mint
chutney- started disappearing from the
bowl while tender flesh pot encountered his taste buds. “Superb shorba
and salivating accompaniments “, he
said with an infectious smile.
To you, food means
“It means a lot to me. I am a foodie.
I remember a befitting saying : A gourmet who thinks of calories is like a
tart who looks at her watch. ~James
Beard
Eat anything that has life??
“Of course, I am a carnivore and love
to romance with my palate- whether
alive or dead. A food –lover will relish
everything without any discrimination”.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

123

“True, he is “, endorses Sommay and
continues: “Once we happened to encounter elephant and he enjoyed a
cuisine made out of its skin. Mmm!
Kees nodded in affirmation while my
body language expressed a different
note.
“Does it look unfamiliar menu?”asked
the Consulate General.”Yah, we haven’t
even heard of it”, I said. Meanwhile
the chef transformed his art of cooking into Crudite Salad ,Chapa Vepudu,
Assorted Kababs (Jhinga Moti Lal,

Mastani Mahi, Murgh Tilwala,
Bharwan Tangri, Shikampuri Kabab)
and Murtabak making the table a food
parlour. Munching the Hyderabad delicacies dipped in barbecue sauces, with
occasional utterances, `yummy’, `delicacy’, the party animal narrates further: “I fondly remember what a food
critic Ambrose Bierce said :`Good to
eat, and wholesome to digest, as a
worm to a toad, a toad to a snake, a
snake to a pig, a pig to a man, and a
man to a worm’. In China, they eat
everything including all flying and moving. There is no discrimination. Prior
to joining the service, I went to the
124

jungles of Laos where some of my
friends offered me a “laap” meat salad
made of raw bat , I ate it though I did
not like much but obliged them. But
really I relished Laap, a signature cuisine of Laos, made of meat with spices
and pulverized roasted rice as a
seaoning.
The discussion took an interesting twist
when this writer hesitatingly expressed
reservation over President Obama’s
decision to restrict liberal visas and
‘outsourcing’ from India, Cornelis

M.Keur ,frankly replied: “It is nice that
you have raised this topic which deserves clarification. Is it wrong to support local talent? What Mr. President
is trying to do is to give preference to
Americans where the unemployment
rate is escalating like in any other countries. In the event of non-availability of
locals certainly we will continue to
outsource without any discrimination.
One thing I can assure you is that we
will never let down friendly countries
like India”.
“Nice Kees that you have addressed
our concern,” I said and before we

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

raised other issues, Vegetarian,Paneer
Tikka Saunfiya (Fennel Flavored Cottage Cheese Grilled In Tandoor) Phal
Seekh Kabab (Raw Plantain & Brocolli
Kebabs) joined our discussion.
While we were batting with the fibre
food, the topic switched over to husbands’ role in the kitchen.
Assistance to wife in the kitchen?
Sommay overtook and responded: “He
is very nice to serve me coffee in the
morning.(My wife looked at me sarcastically and I thought for a while :`
Oh, what a blunder to pose such a
question that landed me in a fix’. For
a while I cursed Sommay for creating
rift between me and my wife) Do you
know when I ask him something more,
Kees prepares Pan Cake and eggs? said
Sommay. My wife stared at me
mischievously.(Am I paying a price for
asking such questions?)
Some top 10 American dishes?
“I recollect what Vince Staten said:
The story of barbecue is the story of
America: Settlers arrive on great unspoiled continent, discover wondrous
riches, set them on fire and eat them.
It varies from person to person. To me,
I could categorise: Humburgers,Apple
pie,Potato
chips,
Clam
Chowder,Pastrami Shoofly pie,
Smithfield ham,po-boys, fajitas, Chicago hot dogs, Chile-verde, Sanfracisco
sourdough and Olympia oyster.
Favourite appetiser?
Chowder breathes reassurance. It
steams consolation. ~Clementine
Paddleford
Red and white wine and Clam chowder, a thick soup made of shell fish

and vegetables. Many restaurants in
New England sell both red and white
chowders, while the southern coast
favours clear and white chowders.
Indulgence in Hyderabad cuisines?
Do you know that I was a mason, prior
to joining the Foreign Service.I have
completed an apprenticeship as a
bricklayer, served in Peace Corps Thailand and worked for an NGO in Laos.
During this time I developed liking towards oriental foods. Be Roman when
you are in Rome. I continue to train
my taste-buds wherever I go. When I
was CG in China ,I entertained myself
to reinvent the Chinese delicacies
where I was introduced to spicy-foods.
As there are similarities between In-

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

125

dian and Chinese foods, I tried and am
in love Hyderabadi delicacies.
Adopt measures to restrict diet?
Oh! Of course, but let me quote what
George Bernard Shaw said: “Everything I eat has been proved by some
doctor or the other to be a deadly
poison, and everything I don’t eat has
been proved to be indispensable for
life. But I go marching on”. I burn
the excess in my tread-mill.
General dining diary?
Never work before breakfast; if you
have to work before breakfast, eat your
breakfast first. - Josh Billings
I am an early bird. Get up at 6.30 am.
Sip a cup of coffee, at 7.00 am. Porridge and some fruits and newspapers
follow my ablutions. Go to my work at
8.30 am. Yoghurt and fruits join my
lunch between 12.30 and 1pm. Leave
my office at 5.30pm.Dinner at Sharp
8 pm with a glass of red wine and go
to bed at 10pm after watching small
screen.
The chef placed a rich and variety of
food as main course with-Stuffed Norwegian Salmon & Salmon Frittata
(Served on a bed of mashed potatoes
and sautéed vegetables) Kaju Kumbh
Makhana (Cashewnuts with mushrooms and lotus seed) Diwan–E–
Handi(A mélange of vegetables cooked
Hyderabadi style)Dal Makhni ( Black
lentils cooked to perfection on a resting tandoor) Indian Breads Roomali
Roti / Masala Kulcha / Pudina
Paratha,Hyderabadi Chicken Biriyani
(All time Hyderabadi Favorite )Qubooli
(Rice Cooked with lentils) Basmati
Chawal (Plain Rice) Paneer Tomato
Quth (Cottage cheese cubes in Tomato
126

gravy) Bagara Baingan Aloo Aur Jeera
Raitha Plain Curd Qubani Ka Meetha (
Stewed Apricots )Shahi Tukra- and
Kees started expressing his helplessness to get trapped into main course
but on insistence he reluctantly tasted
a few of them as he did not have the
stomach for another fight.
An ever-interesting dining encounter
ended with a pleasant note of “Will
meet again with fine wine to complete
this incomplete dinner.(The Wine was
missing)

Cornelis M. Keur, Consul General at
the US Consulate General, Hyderabad
presently holds the Foreign Service
Officer rank of Minister-Counselor and
has been a member of the US Foreign
Service for 30 years. He served most
recently as the Senior State Department Adviser and Deputy Commandant
for International Affairs of the Air Force
campus of the National Defense University. Most of his years with the
Department of State were spent on
various assignments in Asia, having
served in India, Suriname, China (3
tours), Burma, Yemen, Japan and
Thailand. Prior to joining the Foreign
Service, he completed an apprenticeship as a bricklayer, served in Peace
Corps Thailand and worked for an NGO
in Laos. He has attended Trombly
Trade School, the University of Michigan, Harvard University, and the Air
War College. Mr. Keur was born in the
Netherlands and raised in Detroit. Mr.
Keur speaks Chinese, Thai, Lao, and
Dutch. He is married to Sommay Keur.

The restaurant located in the Taramati Baradari tourist complex, Haritha caters
mostly to city tours that drop by for visiting the historical monument. Great food
in a beautiful location.

food

ambience

Serving a multi-cuisine fare, Haritha
offers both Indian and Chinese delicacies. The menu is somewhat limited
but there are no limits to the brilliance
of the chef’s cooking. The food is delicious and well prepared and compliments anyone’s journey to this historical venue. Try some Golden Chicken,
Tangri Kebab, Tawa Fish, Fish Lal Mirchi
and Mutton Mughalai to name a few.
Lunch buffet also set up.

The restaurant and hotel was constructed in tune with the original
Baradari complex, which is situated on
a small hill. Extensively white and
crème in colour, the restaurant holds a
royal look and even has a stage for live
ghazals and other shows. The walls
are adorned with paintings, some of
Taramati who was the Nizam’s courtesan. The seating is unpretentious and
comfortable and highlights the need to
admire the beauty of the monument
outside.

service
The service is good, with mostly tour
guests having the buffet. The stewards
do their job well and the management
personally takes care of guests.

The rooftop venue in the Celebrations Food Villa, Horizon offers some great
sights and smells with its views and barbeques. A fun joint to celebrate your
evenings.

food

ambience

Though the menu is touted as multicuisine with Indian and Oriental options, the speciality of Horizon lies in
its Barbeque and Tandoor creations.
Murg Banjara Kebab and Murg Angara
Kebab alongside Tandoori Anjeeri Raan
and Tandoori Pomfret are some
appetising selections. The coal roasted
Bamboo Chicken is the newest addition; a traditional Andhra tribal recipe,
the herb marinated chicken is cooked
inside bamboo without any oil.

The theme for this restaurant is based
on its location, the terrace and roof
top. The bar has a thatched roof and
matched with the bartendersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; colourful
shirts, resembles a Goan shack. Find
a seat on the terrace or choose from
between three roof top seating sections. Extensive use of bamboo is evident and the spiral staircases to each
roof top are quite charming. Enchanting lamps hang over the tables donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
restrict the lights of the panoramic
view around.

service
The service is of fine dining standards;
the stewards are tidy and efficient, and
ever willing to assist you with anything.

A rooftop dining restaurant with a unique tropical theme, Bali at Holi Festive
Dining has a fine ambience, good location and great views to offer. The restaurant in keeping with its name is themed like a tropical venue.

With the looks of a tropical beach
venue, extensive bamboo work has been
incorporated in the design; chairs,
walls, canopies and even wind chimes
all made of bamboo. Even the lamps
are made of bamboo. The most striking feature is the sunset view over botanical gardens from here. Other eating options are available on the 4th and
2nd floor at Holi and Jalsa restaurants
respectively.

service

ideal for

The service is sharp and the food presented well; professionalism is the key
with the staff

Hunters roost is an open air restaurant specialised in Vegetarian and non-Vegetarian food varieties. It aims to create the effect of a hunter’s den by hanging
lanterns with zero watt bulbs and succeeds with élan.

Placed deep in the back area the restaurant is an open air dining fort. Combination of red and blue lights with trees
all around makes the place all the more
beautiful. The green surroundings are
decorated beautifully with classical
‘charkandil’ lights.

service
With a broad smile stewards welcome
you cordially and ensures timely service without letting you to wait for long.

This cozy establishment at the new Amogh Boutique Hotel serves up a multicuisine fare and is suitable for a daytime drop in. With its casual outlook, it still
attracts people because of its food, primarily.

food

ambience

Serving up Indian, Chinese and some
Continental as well, the menu offers
Paneer Chandni Tikka and Bathi ki Boti.
Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Murg Mussalam, Mutton
Rogan Josh and Methi Chaman for
some delectable choices. Lancashire
Hot Pot and Louisiana Chicken for some
international flavours. Diced Chicken in
Red Pepper is good too. Buffet for all
meals of the day.

Situated in the lobby of the hotel, the
restaurant has a separate entrance. Its
done up with a modern theme; white
with contrasting brown wood paneling
and furniture. The seating is wood chairs
with cane work and the tables rest on
tree stumps. Crockery has a white and
lemon green colour theme which is very
refreshing. LCD TV and instrumental
music for your entertainment.

service
Staff is trained well and handles your
orders well, smartly suited in shirts and
trousers.

ideal for
Conversation; Family; Dating; Value for
Money

information

recommended

value

Seating 54; Open 7am11:30pm. Live Kitchen;
Valet; Catering; Liquor
Served

With a high ceiling and spacious seating, Leo Bistro is a classy, upscale dining alternative. The interiors are brown
with wood panelling all over. Black and
red leather sofas accompany the tables
which are adorned with wine glasses.
The ceiling above is ornamented with
red panel lighting and the floor below
is plush floral carpeting. Abstract paintings deck the walls and Indian classical fusion music soothes the senses.
Bar is beautifully lit and stocked.

service
The stewards dressed in white wearing the resort green aprons, serve you
well and are good with their presentation skills.

It is an elegant place to enjoy melodious ghazals, Mughlai luxury and Nawabi
cuisine. Meet them all here, a truly unique amalgam within the diversity of
Indian cuisine.

food

ambience

The Hyderabadi Biryani leads the food
caravan, followed by dhaba Murgh,
Pakiza, Mutton rogan Josh, Kebabs and
Tangris. You have Mughlai, Sea, Mexican and Italian food varieties spread
across the table. The Pomfret and lobster add splendor to the parade of food.
Korma Navrotan, kofta curry and dal
makhni follow through in regal style.

The place in the basement illuminated
with yellowish red sober lights has a
classical cool look. Adding to this the
feel of the music makes your mind wander in to the memories as you wait for
the order to be served.

service
With the traditional ghazals going on
one side, the waiters serving you treat
you in complete royalty. The staff is
ever available to assist you with an efficient service.

ideal for
Ideal for corporate biggies, Family gatherings, anniversaries and birthday parties.

Nimantran is housed under Urvasi Residency and is present in the heart of
Secunderabad. The place is affordable and one can enjoy being here dining in
a homely environment.

food

ambience

The popular cuisines on the menu starts
with Shorba Soup a thin tomato soup
flavoured with finely chopped coriander leaves. Murg Badami shorba and
Green Salad and Aloo channa are the
initiator. The starters include Mongolian fire bytes, Chicken or Paneer,
prawns and spring rolls which all make
a good start.

Nimantran is an exotic place with comfort seating. Flamey cross glaring lights
cusped around the corners of the ceiling gives the interiors a unique look.
The centre of the hall is dim with an
evening look. A wide screen television
with low sound and melodious classical music makes the ambience more
exuberant.

service
The door keeper invites you in with a
warm welcome and as soon as you step
in, the captain guides you to the table
of your comfort and appoints a separate waiter for your service till you are
done with the food.

Get arrested over the spread of multi-cuisines! An indelible address of yesteryear-children-turned-guests whose itinerary remains incomplete without dining
here.

food

ambience

Channing Pollock saying: ‘No man in
the world has more courage than the
man who can stop after eating one
peanut’ is very relevant when you enter this luring food station enriched with
appealing and voluptuous spread of fibre food and meaty meat. Local -Guntur
Kodi Vepudu, Mamsam Vepudu, Mogul- kebabs, Oriental Dim sum and
weekend buffet breakfast are for your
palate.

Cool and homely. May be done deliberately to focus your attention only to dining. Vocal and instrumental music flows
to twist your moods. Simple interiors
but certainly not run-of the-mill kind.
Glass paintings on the ceiling, moodtriggering upholsteries and friendly staff
add soothing effect to the dining etiquette. Executive Chef Thangappan’s
personalized interaction is fresh dimension to the dining stlyle.

service

ideal for

Motherly care and feed-back- backed
service is worth mentioning. Tycoon
lunch buffet should be ventured.

A creative blend of expectations and reward. No disappointments, only enchanting experience. It is a journey between nature and man-made wonders.
Thoughtfully renovated structure is elders- friendly. Dine & wine while gazing at
Hussain Sagar Lake. Relax to rejuvenate in the lounge bar.

food

ambience

Layered with merry-making mock tail,
vibrant vodka and exotic food you are
bound to become Okra fan (house wives
beware!). Chiseled to add the nuances
of health care, the temple of fine dining where every menu is crafted to cater
to the best. Latest release â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Melting
potâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, a six- hour dine & drink bonanza
at Bidri or Okra ,the longest and the
widest choice of dining mela, is an inevitable part of your epicurean experience. Invade to enjoy!

A model location, none can find anywhere in Hyderabad. Okra overlooks a
rather wide and deep swimming pool,
which is quite inviting as you enter the
place. It's spacious and fairly plush.
Fractioned into four segments; Entrance
seats, mezzanine, lower and pool side,
each space provides a different feel.
Stone carvings surround the pool while
the mirrors create an illusion of vastness.

A depiction of rural India, Padharo ‘welcomes’ you to the creativity of the countryside, combining good food with a unique village-like theme. It only gets
better from being rustic to the suave.

food

ambience

Padharo serves a multi-cuisine menu,
dominated by Mughlai and north Indian
cuisines. For starters, the Mirchi Paneer
Tikka and Murgh Angaar Tikka make
delectable options. From the main
course, Paneer Lababdar, Murgh
Kalimirch and the Keema Hari Mirch
Do Pyaza do excellent with Daal
Makhani and naans. For an Oriental
taste, try the Honey Chilli Fish Fingers,
Crispy Shredded Lamb and the spicy
Chicken in Malay Sauce.

The décor is very ethnic, with seating
around a beautiful centerpiece with an
oil lamp burning within. The walls are
of an earthen hue and are covered with
rural artwork; sections of these walls
have striking handicrafts and handlooms
put up as decorations. The black high
back chairs are intricately carved and
designed. Slow hindi songs are played
out to ‘Indianise’ your dining experience.
The place has lost some of its charm
under the new management.

service
The service is adequate enough; the
servers do their job satisfactorily but
might need some polishing up.

ideal for
Friends; Family; Value for Money; Conversation

information

recommended

Seating 80; Open
12pm-11:30pm. Liquor
Served

Keema Hari Mirch Do
Pyaza

value
Couple Rs.400-500

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

145

Paradise Food Court

S.D Road, Secunderabad
Tel: 040-40023230

–

500003.

A landmark of Hyderabad, & Secunderabad, it is affiliated by the tourism department and is renowned across the country for its traditional biryani and
kebabs.

food

ambience

Paradise is renowned for its Biryanis
and Kebabs. Other than these, the Food
court offers famous puffs - veg, egg,
chicken or mutton. The Irani samosas
are also well-loved. As are the cakes,
pastries - Pineapple, Italian, Litchee and the Plum Cake. The ice-cream
parlor is best for Faluda or Lassi. At
the kebab counter, the most demanded
items are the Tandoori Chicken, Kalmi,
Garlic, Sheekh and Tangdi Kebabs.

The food court has different levels and
different outlets to cater to varied packets. The ground floor has a take away
as well as a dining joint. “Persis Gold”
is a Multi Cuisine family restaurant and
the garden section has evolved into a
classic group offering a wide range of
food. The expansion of “Paradise Platinum” a huge Banquet hall with an
open kitchen is another offering. The
diversity of ambience raises itself as
you go up each of these levels.

service

ideal for

Paradise is the only restaurant which
uses PDAs to improve their service by
taking orders and serving food.

Family get-togethers, conferences,
friends

information

recommended

Timing for each level
differs, but you will get
your bite. Valet Parking.
Efficient Security.

Biryani, Kebabs, Haleem

146

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

value
Rs 600 for a couple

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

147

148

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Hotel Nakshatra, MG Road, Secunderabad.
Tel.: 040-6633 8888

Parikrama

An ideal dining venue for families and corporate gatherings, Parikrama is the
mainstay restaurant of Hotel Nakshatra in the busy commercial centre of
Secunderabad.

food

ambience

The food served is Indian, Chinese and
Continental with starters such as Hakka
Chilli Chicken and Soya Chilli Fish.
Tandoori platters are a good option as
the Parikrama Mix Grill in veg and non
veg. For authentic Andhra taste, try the
Gongura Mamsam and for international
palates, have the Chicken a la King
(chicken with capsicum, onion, tomato
and mushroom in cream sauce).
Parikrama Special Biryani is a mix of
chicken, mutton and shrimp. Their
lunch buffet is popular.

A no-frills dining hall with walls done
in white, complimented by the red curtains and small red lamps hanging from
the ceiling lending a smooth pink hue
to the surroundings. Seating is done
with chairs and couches, having a mix
of brown and maroon upholstery with
matching tablecloths to make it an
organised setting. Wall paintings and
small copper figurines adorn the two
sides of the diner lending a rustic Indian look. Slow romantic hindi songs
keep your moods serene.

service

ideal for

The service is timely and adequate; the
buffet popularity keep stewards at bay.

Award winners for efficient power management! A centrally located food joint is
a popular address for Hyderabadis. Frequent food festivals are a star attraction
to epicureans. Chef Perumal Ramachandranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magical touch adds twist to your
taste buds.

food

ambience

Awesome! Be it a Sayantaram Tiffin,
buffet lunch / dinner or midnight
biryanis, it is a perfect rendezvous to
dine. Change for better is consistently
followed. Kerala and Bengali food festivals are regular feature. Corn curd and
broccoli kebabs for veggies, Chepa
vepudu, Hara masala Murg for non vegetarians. Exploit the chef through personal interaction to extract extra pound
of flesh, the right way to compensate
your purse.

A spacious restaurant, it is a quiet
place located on the mezzanine floor
of the hotel. This food joint is a popular address for IT professionals as their
business center is located at an armâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
distance. Adequately lit both in the
afternoon and the evening the restaurant is just right for a relaxed dining experience.

Apart from the very special Andhra & Shahi cuisine, Tabla also has the best of
Chinese, Punjabi, Continental and Indian cuisine, making the perfect symphony of wining and dining. They serve all varieties of Imported Liquor.

food

ambience

Tabla comes to you with the promise
that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food would be music for your
tummy...great food with great attention to ambience is its USP. Serving
multi-cuisine delicacies viz., Chinese,
Continental, Italian, North Indian, and
South Indian dishes, try the Telangana
Chicken, Chicken Kebabs, corn Kernel,
Crispy Fried Veg, Special Chicken
Biryani. The cozy little bar counter is
well stocked.

Welcomed with a cozy little lounge,
the restaurant is sleek in design with
a contemporary look; the colour code
is mainly cream on the walls with
maroon napkins and thin drapes. The
highlight is its 3 magnificent PDRs.
The restaurant is mostly carpeted but
at certain section, its just marble flooring, giving it a certain contrast. The
music is soft Indian and English. The
lighting is well balanced. The stylishly
grey coloured cushions add to the
theme.

service
Well staffed, it has kept its service standards at top priority right from opening.

Tarang is a luxurious and posh highflied restaurant to enjoy dining and wining
as well. The restaurant is grouped under the Urvasi Residency and Managed by
MO Group.

food

ambience

The unique items on the menu are
Mongolian fire bytes, diced chicken or
Paneer prawns and spring rolls. Kebabs,
Tandoori Veg Paneer Sunahari are the
most moving delicacies.

With unique lighting of blue and red
and big cosy sofas to be comforted in,
Tarang really add â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rangâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (colour) to life.
High intensity music and the dance platform incites every one young and old to
hip and hop on the floor.

service
Hot food with cool and homely environs is served. The waiters dressed trim
and smart are prompt for your service.
Other services offered are valet parking, catering, reservation and liquor is
also served.

Green Globe Certified Property. Adda for gourmets! Fine dining is redefined in
every spec! An address no foodies can afford to miss. Simply an extravaganza.
Resist if you can, otherwise surrender to an ultimate temptation – be it the
buffet breakfast, the lavish lunch or the sumptuous dinner.

food

ambience

This multi-cuisine restaurant is a rightroyal address to romance with delicacies unlimited. Chef Syam Sunder pampers you with legendary Hyderabadi
Biryani at the Indian counter or
tantalising lavish buffet dinner overlooking the three live cooking stations. Don’t
forget to try the Sunday brunch, a super –duper food festival. A-la-carte options of international favourites and local cuisines are a part of the all-daydining-menu.

The restaurant is set against a contemporary European decor, the chic
and user -friendly. Three live kitchens keep you moving. The restaurant has an outdoor seating overlooking the hotel swimming pool, a visual care and lawns for a stroll.

service

Anytime, every time dining with near
ones or corporate deliberations. Leisure
or business, be there to find the difference.

Hospitality is redefined to give you a
nawabi feel. Rajesh Gopalakrishnan
(Director - F&B) is always there to help

A glassy enclosure that is bejewelled
with luxury furniture. Majestically elegant, the place is a lovely dinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fort.
You have lavish grandeur comfort seating that enables 6 persons together at
one table. Dim with cross ceiling yellowish lights, it gives you a unique experience of dining.

service

ideal for

Attendants are prompt to take the order and serve you in the earliest possible time. They are always at your
service throughout your meal and offer
you the fullest comforts.

Clients from Corporate, Government,
and Telecom are the prominent visitors. Business magnets and high profile Politicos and bureaucrats too are
the regular visitors.

A rooftop restaurant, Ullasa serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian multicuisine fares. An apt setting for cool evenings with family or friends in traditional dining.

food

ambience

The restaurant specialises in Barbeque
preparations available in chicken, mutton and seafood; the 5 flavours platter
presents the best variety of tastes. The
Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourites are the Murgh Tangdi
Kothmeer (tangdi kebab in coriander
gravy) and Murgh Wazid Alishan
(chicken in cashew almond gravy). The
tawa preparations give you Sukha
Bhunawa Jhinga & Ghosht or Murgh.
Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is famous. Also
try the Continental fare.

The beautifully carved door at the entrance leads you to a courtyard with a
fountain. There is seating all around the
courtyard and for A/C dining there is an
indoor area too. The area has an intricately carved ceiling and wall paintings
depicting traditional village scenes. The
outdoor seating area is adorned with
pottery along with swings and antique
artefacts, giving it the look of a traditional South Indian house. There is an
attached bar, which too is decorated
with wood carved pillars and panels.

service
The service is timely and efficient; the
waist-coated stewards keep you content.

ideal for
Conversation; Family; Friends; Outdoor;
Value for Money

information

recommended

value

Seating 142; Open
11am-11pm

Raan Alishaan (rum
flamed, roasted baby
lamb)

Couple Rs.400-600;
Drinks Rs.300-400

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

155

Hotel Urvasi, Punjagutta, Hyderabad-82
Tel.: 040-2342 0548

Urvasi

Urvasi bar and restaurant has been a preferred hangout for the people for many
years; good food at great prices, the newly renovated venue has kept with its
standards of the past years.

Trying to keep things simple and minimal, the dĂŠcor is of a typical bar and
restaurant establishment. CrĂ¨me colour
code is mixed with brown wood work
for a warm and cosy look. Chairs are
comfortable seating and the couches
are relaxing. Instrumental tunes play in
with the yellow panel lighting and the
soft lamps over the tables. Seating is
ample with two floors providing the
space.

Rating 3/5

service

Service is timely and sufficient; standards have been maintained over the
years.

The Red Bean is a quality eatery in the Gachibowli area, catering to the palates
of IT/BPO professionals of the neighbouring area and giving them a fresh new
way to look at ambience and multi-cuisine delicacies.

food

ambience

Serving a multitude of Indian and Oriental creations, the menu itself looks
impressive. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paneer Tikka,
Tarkari Seekh Kebab, Butter Garlic
Prawns, Galouti Kebabs and Tawa
Machhli to start with. Then moving on
to Paneer Makhni, Shahi Malai Kofta,
Murg Nilgiri, Murg Makhani Maharaja
and Kadhai Jhinga to order for main
course. Finish off with some genuine
Kulfi or Gajar ka Halwa.

With a neat and tidy setup, the place
has the look of a modern diner. A blend
of white with the browns of the wood
panelling lend it a bright and warm hue.
With elegant high back chairs, comfortable wall to wall couches and glass
top tables, the seating is ample and
spacious. Bay windows on one side provide nice views; cloth lamps hanging
over tables coupled with the lounge
music make for quite an experience.

service

ideal for

Being a brand new restaurant, the staff
is well trained and suited up in chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
jackets.

Located inside the Cyber Towers, the
restaurant is quite large with a really
high ceiling. Done up in white and
crème the décor exudes a bright and
fresh feel. The chairs are of light brown
wood and the beige upholstery goes
well with it. Large bay windows facing
the outside bring in adequate natural
light, and give a good view in the evenings. There is a central internal dome
with charming chandeliers hanging
from it.

service

ideal for

The service is quick and responsive. The
buffet is lavishly spread and well maintained.

One of the first 3 star hotel restaurants in Hyderabad to go purely vegetarian,
Venue serves up Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines and they seem to
have a Rajasthani connection.

food

ambience

The restaurant prides itself for the lunch
buffet they serve; special Paranthas,
Kulcchas and Rotis are made available
daily. The a-la-carte menu offers delectable vegetarian kebabs and tikkas
like Paneer Tikka Makhanwala. For
entrees, try Kadhai Kumbh Kaju
(paneer, capsicum, onions, mushrooms
and cashews in spicy masala;
Rajasthani style) and Dhaba Daal
Amritsari. One can try some Chinese
too.

With a cream and brown colour code
and a wooden floor for that earth feeling, the restaurant presents itself for
formal dining. Brown chairs and green
couches blend in well and 4 carved
wooden pillars around the dining room
give it an ethnic touch; the walls are
crafted with depictions of Rajasthani
palatial ruins. The bright lights accentuate your food while the soft instrumental music does the same for your
mood.

service
The service is good, with welcome
drinks served and fresh rotis and naans
brought to your table from the kitchen.

All day dining restaurant, this international eatery serves a fine selection of
dishes from across the world, and is the ideal setting for a quick breakfast, chic
business lunch or an intimate evening meal.

food

ambience

Guest can look forward to a selection
of international favourites. Indonesian
Nasigorang is the signature dish. Also
try Roti pe Boti and Olive studded steak.
Also try the Sandwich bar which is
quite popular. Try the varied blends â&#x20AC;&#x201C;
Indian, continental, Italian (Thursdays),
Seafood night (Fridays). Other than the
huyge variety of food to select, there
are also a wide range of Indian and imported spirits to choose from.

With its casual ambience, Arena, the
only Atrium coffee shop in south India
is a classic example of usage of space
with the right balance of lighting. he
spaciousness of the coffee shop is truly
appreciable and the design elements
introduced across the dining area is
aesthetic. Wood, metal and works with
the rock formations give an added touch.
Natural lighting and the live kitchens
provide the awe into the experience.

service

ideal for

Buffet service and live kitchen is what
you can look for at Arena. Also try the
Sunday Brunch which is popular.

The atrium coffee shop at the Katriya De Royal hotel; a cozy outlet for spending
afternoons and lazy evenings is just one among those joints where you can find
the best of multi-cuisine fares all through.

food

ambience

Serving a variety of cuisines plus the
usual coffee shop grub, the menu has
Shrimp Cocktail, Chicken Hawaiian
Salad, Sour Pepper Prawns, and Shredded Chicken in Pepper for some delectable choices. For Indian tastes there’s
Peshawari Murg, Murg Tikka Makhani,
Paneer Lababdar and Murg Shahi
Korma. Buffet is set up for breakfast,
lunch and dinner with multi cuisine
fare.

Being situated in the atrium of the
hotel, Café De Royal gets a very airy
and spacious feel. The colours are in
synch with the exteriors’; with bright
and cheery shades overall. The multi
coloured striped chairs and couches are
a good compliment. To brighten things
up, wall paintings of flowers. The lobby
music with natural lighting of the
atrium keeps things fresh.

The coffee shop of the Quality Inn Residency, Café Capri is a small but sleek
joint with an interesting theme to go along with and serves some great Indian
and continetals.

food

ambience

Breakfast can be enjoyed in Indian and
Continental variety and the live counter
dishes out fresh Dosas, Uttapams and
Pancakes. The dinner buffet is multi
cuisine and purely vegetarian. From the
café menu one can choose between
Malai Paneer Tikka, Veg Seekh Kebab,
Methi Chaman Bahar and Paneer Butter Masala apart from Spring Rolls, Pizzas, Burgers and Sandwiches, all vegetarian.

The theme of this coffee shop is of a
Bombay/Goa style café: green and
brown colours; red brick wall layout;
green wrought iron chairs and tables;
wrought iron seating partitions; window
shutters; coffee mugs on wall mountings
and comic murals depicting celebrations
in every scene. The music is from the
lobby and is soft and non-disturbing.
Attractive lamps hang low from the
ceiling and illuminate your table nicely.

service
The staff caters to you well; sharply
dressed in shirts and neck-ties.

A grand lavish affair, Deccan Pavilion is the signature coffee shop at the ITC
Kakatiya hotel; offers delectable cuisines in its buffet spread and has maintained a class of its own.

food

ambience

Serving multi-cuisine fares, the coffee
shop presents some of the best Indian,
Oriental and Western food. Definitely
take a pick from the Best of Pavilion
which features Five Spice Roast
Chicken and Pavilion Chocolate Signature dessert. The rest of the menu offers customised pizzas and pasta, New
Zealand Lamb Chops and varieties of
Kathi Rolls. Also features a kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; menu.
The lunch buffet is lavishly spread, with
four separate sections.

The ambience offered is that of a modern coffee shop theme crossed with ITC
Luxury traditions. The place looks sleek
with a blend of turquoise and white
contrasts. The couches are striped
multi-coloured and bring out the
colourful nature of the guests. With
western tunes to keep you elevated, the
brightly lit place awakens your senses.
Outdoor seating by the pool side is also
available.

service

ideal for

Service is impeccable; stewards and
stewardesses suited up in black provide ultimate hospitality.

An ideal location for business breakfast, this coffee shop at Grand Solitaire is a
perfect address to beat those hunger pangs at innovative and strategically priced
dishes.

food

ambience

The breakfast buffet is the most popular with live dosa counters, grilled sausages and many non-vegetarian delicacies being constantly added. Do Nalli
ka Kebab is a favourite here but also
try Sabka Baap â&#x20AC;&#x201C; served in vegetarian
and non-vegetarian varieties consisting
of 16 specialities for Rs 380 & Rs 520
respectively.

The design is sleek and quite contemporary which ideally identifies the restaurant as a coffee shop. Granite flooring balanced with wood, dim lighting,
bamboo shoots going by Feng Shui
concept, Marble rocks to add to the
themeâ&#x20AC;Śall give a great feel to the
place while you dine with some of the
amazing collection of delicacies from
Flavours kitchen.

service

ideal for

Great service and clean theme gives
you a good dining experience throughout.

The coffee shop at the Minerva Grand, Fiesta is another addition to the legacy
of quality dining venues from the Minerva Group. A bright and vibrant establishment, it is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fiestaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in its own rights.

food

ambience

Being a multi-cuisine outlet, the menu
offers the regular coffee shop fares of
soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers
along with a host of Indian and Chinese delicacies to choose from. The
Italian style Minestrone Soup and
Chicken Sausage Salad are interesting
options. Starters offer Paneer Shaslik
and Murg Tangdi Kebab, which can be
accompanied by Bharwan Aaloo (potato stuffed with paneer and dry fruits).
Buffet set up for all three meal times.

The first aspect to catch your attention would be the lemon yellow colour
code followed in the restaurant; mixed
with few greens and browns, the place
has a bright, cheery outlook. The yellow panel lights mimic the aura of sunrise and awaken the senses. The
glasses have colourful patterns adding
to the palette of the place. Smooth
instrumental music keeps the mood
light and blends well with the ambience.

service

ideal for

Service is prompt and adequate; since
buffet is the mainstay, the staff is not
required all the time.

Indus is the coffee shop in the Ellaa Suites hotel and serves up Indian, Chinese
and Continental fares. Located in the outskirts of the city, it is an apposite
venue to unwind away from the hustle bustle of the city.

With the looks and charm of a hotel
coffee shop, Indus soothes your senses
with its dark brown shades fused with
cream. The furniture is done in shades
of maroon, orange and gold, giving it a
nice contrasting look These mix of
shades bestow it with a bright and
warm aspect. One side of the restaurant is glass walled and overlooks the
beautiful lawns and fountains of the
hotel.

service
Friendly and courteous staff. The chef
whips magic even outside the kitchen,
with amazing sculptures setup around
the buffet area.

ideal for
Family; Dating; Conversation; Non Vegetarians

information

recommended

value

Seating 120; Open
6am-12am.
Live
Kitchen; Home Delivery.
Liquor Served

Brick Grilled Chicken
(breast and leg in garlic
and olive oil with sautĂŠed
spinach and potatoes)

A petite and cosy establishment, Juventa Café is part of the grand Leo Juventa
spa and wellness centre; serves up incredible spa cuisine for the rejuvenation of
mind, body and soul.

food

ambience

Revitalizing your body at the Spa Café
after a workout, spa treatment or yoga
session becomes that much effective
with the healthy spa-cuisine that includes great salads, entrees power
drinks, smoothies, and a wide selection of Herbal Teas. The Chicken Panini
served with garlic bread and low-fat
butter is a delectable choice to fuel up
the body.

Located on the ground floor of the spa
complex, Juventa Café is an invigorating setting with hay coloured chairs and
glass top tables giving it an elegant look.
Surrounded by bay windows, the place
gets ample sunshine to refresh any
mind; the unhindered views of the foliage and swimming pool outside make
this an ideal place to relax yourself.

ideal for

service
Service is professional; as an extension
to the spa, the service provided here is
of high standards as the spa.

information
Seating 24; Open 7:00
am – 9:00 pm

Health Conscious

recommended
Fish wrap

value
Couple Rs.400-500

Valet; A la Carte
Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

175

Hotel Urvashi, Punjagutta, Hyderabad-82
Tel.: 040-2342 0548

Motif

A small cosy setup for a coffee shop, Motifs is located at Hotel Urvashi and
serves up a multi-cuisine fare for busy professionals from the surrounding
Punjagutta commercial area; a nice place to drop in for a quick bite or a full
lunch from their buffet.

food

ambience

Serving a multi cuisine fare with Indian, Oriental and some Continental
tastes to offer, the mainstay of this
coffee shop is the buffet set up for
breakfast, lunch, dinner and midnight.
The menu has Paneer Tikka, Chilly
Mushroom, Mahi Tikka and Murg Malai
Kebab. One can also choose from Kasha
Paneer and Malai Kofta or Veg Chow
Chow and Chicken in Thai Red Curry.
The buffet setup is lavishly spread and
offers a wide array of options.

On entering the hotel, first thing that
comes to notice are the carved pillars
that separate the lobby and the coffee
shop. The place is done up in white so
as to give a clean and fresh aura. The
chairs are of carved wood and one side
has wall to wall couches; this side is
adorned with framed ornaments on the
wall, lending an artistic touch. Bay
windows allow adequate natural lighting and give an airy spacious fee.

service
The stewards dressed in waist coats
and bow ties, do their job well and in
time.

With a name that translates into ‘the café of art’, this charming coffee shop has
an artistic bent to it and is an ideal place to relax with a good book. The
ambience is eclectic.

food

ambience

Serving some unique tastes, they offer
starters like Footlong Onion Rings, Pepper Chilli Chicken and Crunchy Chilli
Fish. For bigger appetites they can offer the Arabic Kafta Lamb Burger,
Chicken and Lamb Duet Sandwich and
the Arabic Garlic Chicken. Shawarmas
are their latest offerings with Kafta
Kebab, Shish Touk and Chicken
Shawarma. Desserts available from the
Deli9 counter are delicious.

With a theme signifying an art gallery,
this coffee shop provides just the laid
back but yet creative ambience one
needs to ponder over intellectual
thoughts. With a crème colour code,
the place exudes a nice glow that keeps
your moods light and relaxed. Seating
via the numerous teak chairs, made of
dark wood, looks classy along with
maroon couches. Pictures adorn the
walls and the ceilings are bejewelled
with chandeliers, each with its own
design.

A cozy outlet, the coffee shop in the Green Park hotel is a sunny place to dine
in; relaxed moods and an ideal place for late night dining. It gives perfect
excuse to be awake and be fed.

food

ambience

The menu offers multi-cuisine fare with
Indian and Chinese varieties. People
mostly come by to try the buffet, set
up for dinner and midnight. The dinner
buffet is a culinary delight called the
Culinary Cascade with a separate cuisine for each day; Mon-Chinese, TuePunjabi, Wed-Hyderabadi, Thu-North
Indian, Fri-South Indian, Sat-Mughlai
and Sun-Multi Cuisine. The Midnight
Biryani buffet serves up some delicious
Biryani, Haleem, Shorma and Curries.

The place is brightly lit and highlights
the contrasting brown and creme decor. The walls are adorned with beautiful paintings by a local Telangana artist and the golden tulips on the wall
somehow compliment each other and
blend in. The sunny side shows with
the yellows and greens of the crockery
and tablemats adding a nice glow to
the ambiance. The coffee shop is open
towards the lobby and gets a spacious
feel.

service
Service is adequate enough; though it
can get testy at times, taking too long
with the naans.

“I was irrevocably betrothed to
laughter, the sound of which has
always seemed to me the most
civilised music in the world.”
- Peter Ustinov (British Actor, Director and Playwright)
He is simple and unassuming. He
is an epitome of humour. He has
been spreading this infectious virus for the past 40 years. His
humour has united many families,
brought estranged friends together,
cemented cracking associations
and has been energising sullying
souls to become happy hearts. The
king of humour has many accolades
and awards to his credit. He is the
only comedian in India to join
Guinness book of world records for
acting in nearly 825 films. He was
recently conferred Padma shri for
his contribution to film industry.
The perennial source of humour,
without an iota of hype or hesitation, joined celebrity dining to
share his success story while seldom romancing with flood of food.

I

n line with his agenda of skipping a
multi course dinner, Kanneganti
Brahmanandam preferred to have a
light food and requested the chef not
to load the dining table but selectively
chose some accompaniment to join his
dinner. Though well spread high / low
calorie multi course buffet was at his
disposal, Brahmanandam preferred
chicken corn soup to begin with while
a few South Indian starters – Andhra
chicken vepudu, vankaya, porial and fiber rich broccoli made in Andhra style
slowly started inviting him to speak
about many subjects including food encounters.

He says, “I was a foodie and a voracious lover of non-vegetarians. My indiscriminate indulging in eating resulted in depositing disproportionate
flesh in and around my body causing
uneasiness; I thought that the time has
come to give a twist to the eating style.
For the past five years I have ticked off
dinners to shed the additional storage
of unwanted calories. Fruits and juices
are my dinner menu. This self-imposed
restriction invited huge criticism in the
film industry where late and wellspread dinners are common features.
Instead of avoiding invitations and displeasing friends, I started attending dinners but never dined. Gradually my
friends, when realised that I am not
justifying their invitation they understood me well.”
Joel Goodman, American actor, says
that humour is a universal language
and Brahmanandam is practising it in
my daily life.He says:”It doesn’t mean
I don’t eat. I love good lunch and preferably Andhra food especially from the
kitchen of my wife who is a master
chef. My wife Lakshmi has a magical
hand and whatever she prepares is
ambrosia and I am yet to find a similar
or equal alternative to her food preparation anywhere in the world. Andhra
chicken, Brinjal curry are some of the
delicacies I still ruminate whenever I
miss her during my outdoor shooting. I
think I am conditioned and am yet to
make any new attempts to break it
because I have not faced any problem
so far”.
To a question what he means about
conditioning the mind, the Hashya
Brahmma unfolded a new dimension
of his personality. Brahmanandam,
whose presence vibrates positive notes,
was a lecturer before joining film in-

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

183

dustry. He was performing mimicry
during his school days and later continued it in college too and was adjudged as the best supporting actor in
a competition held at Andhra University in 1971. This appreciation pushed
him forward to find some space in film
industry and became a full time comedian since 1984. A voracious reader,

struggles endlessly even to take a small
of the smallest decision in spite of getting advice and suggestions from well
– wishers and friends. Buddha’s decision making power is mind boggling - a
great wonder. I am probing to know
more about the mind. I fondly remember a quote by Lord Buddha who
preached that if we are ready to learn
the giver emerges in no time.”.
The Executive Chef Hrudananda Behera
was ready with some special cuisines
from the kitchen but the man of smiles
smilingly thanked him and took
Hyderabad biryani and chicken curry as
main course without venturing into the
rich buffet.

whose outlook was tilting towards philosophical roots when he encountered the
writings of Jiddu Krishna Murthy, Osho,
Vievakananda and Lord Budha, has
been probing further about the mystery
of human mind.
When he speaks he means it. He unfolds something worth an intellectual
gourmet for mind: “Reading is my
stable and staple food and this continued even after my entry into tinsel world.
My romance with philosophers like
Jiddu Krishna Murthy and Lord Buddha
culminated into a self introspecting
mechanism. I am excited to understand
the most scintillating and thought provoking message of Lord Buddha. I was
thrilled to learn the greatest power of
decision making of Lord Buddha. He
was well endowed with anything and
everything – a beautiful wife, handsome
children and ocean like wealth – and
in no time he took a decision to desert
and embraced a spiritual journey. I
wondered at human mind which
184

Munching juicy chicken, the captain
of comedy said: “Annam Parabrahmam.
If God is energy so is the food. But food
does carry positive and negative energies. The food should be consumed depending upon the body requirement.
Every food item may not be suitable to
everybody and one should read the
body’s response and switch over to a
food that is friendly to the system. I
prefer less spicy and salt which are normally prescribed as a good recipe to
body. After a spicy food you can’t talk
smilingly. Mild food conditions the
behaviour and I am at it”.
Though he has a sweet tooth, his conscious eating resisted chef’s temptations. This was the time a popular and
tall Tamil hero Satya Raj entered the
cafe. The king of humour has set a
new agenda. The agenda is simple and
influencing. After the successful
completion of M.Phil, Brahmanandam,
the master of humour, is now doing
his PhD, in Nagarjana University and
the title is befitting and contextual “Role
of Humour in Telugu Literature”.

A small but still widely popular outlet with the commercial district of
Secunderabad, Panorama is the coffee shop in Nakshatra hotel, serving multicuisine vegetarian fare.

food

ambience

The main attractions here are the buffet setups for breakfast, lunch and dinner; the menu gets sidelined. The menu
here is strictly vegetarian to cater to
the Sindhi population around the area.
The buffet setup for both lunch and dinner offers the customer about 30 items
to feast on comprising north Indian,
south Indian and Chinese delicacies in
vegetarian form. They also serve a vegetarian biryani along with plain rice and
a selection of desserts to choose from.

With the look and feel of a regular coffee shop, Panorama is a no-fuss establishment serving affordable food. This
coffee shop is mostly white,
complimented by the black/red stripe
upholstered chairs and couches paired
with wrought iron tables. The lighting
is bright and the lone wall mounted
LCD TV supplies the melodies from
music channels. A split-level seating
area caters to private parties and functions; buffet sees the place swarming
with customers.

service
The service required is minimum, with
soup, starters and roti/naan being
served.

The place has an inviting dining area
that is artistically lighted. The water
colored posters poster on the walls are
aesthetic and elegance to the dining
experience. The glass display in niches
in the walls adds to the overall visual
appeal. The design and décor make a
lasting impression on the mind.

service
The pleasant and courteous service of
it’s smartly turned out staff can be enjoyed with complete content.

A wonderful Coffee shop, it Peppers you with aromas and makes you taste the
Salt. Specialized in offering multi-cuisine buffets served from morning through
midnight.

food

ambience

Multi-cuisine buffets are on the offer.
The menu includes Indian chicken curry,
chicken biryani, Paneer veg biryani,
Zinger chicken, Mongolian chicken,
Lamb and kung Pao prawan. From continental Green Prawns are popular. Chinese include Chicken chilli-65 in nonveg and in veg you have spring rolls and
mushroom.

The place is a perfect mix of glass and
metal. The furniture is unique and attracts the visitor to get seated. It has
aesthetic glassy surroundings. The
lamps cusped in the low ceiling offer
brilliant glare-free light that adds more
to the beauty.

service
Impeccable service is offered with aesthetic ambience around. Stewards are
prompt at your request and offer Coffee
at your table. During lunch, dinner and
even at midnight one can enjoy buffets
with alacrity.

With the union of the Sun and the Moon as the central theme, this coffee shop
at the Leonia resorts is a refreshing option for all day dining and represents one
of the most modern dine outs for 24 hours.

food

ambience

With the buffet being the mainstay of
the outlet, the menu is short and concise. The menu offers Chicken Tikka
Frankie, Sloppy Joe and Chicken Goujons
for some interesting tastes. There are
mini combo meals available such as
Mutton Roganjosh or Butter Chicken
enjoyed with choice of rice or
parantha. They make their own desserts and serve some good frozen coffee drinks. Burgers, Pizzas and Sandwiches also on call.

Red and black seem to be the theme
depicting sun and moon in its colours.
The walls are red and black and the
furniture follows the same colour code.
The curtains are red and black too with
the black cane chairs having red cushions. The ceiling is illustrated with rays
of the sun which are also in red and
black; the walls are decked with paintings of the sun and moon playing hide
and seek. Windows all round give natural lighting and views of the lawns.

service

ideal for

Service is quick and professional; opting for buffet brings hot roti and naan
to your table.

A 24-hour coffee shop, this restaurant serves exclusive North-Eastern Frontier
delicacies with a touch of Hyderabad. Overlooking a small man-made lake, the
Cafe is most popular for ‘ Vast’ buffet.

food

ambience

It is a factory of cordon bleu cuisines
powered to charge your body & mind.
Serving Breakfast, lunch and dinner,
this coffee shop is ideal for Indian and
continental breakfasts. Breakfast cereals, even Oriental, Gujarati,
Rajasthani delicacies. Unique aspect
of the food promotion is Khao Galli
which is held every Saturday is a basically Street food at Rs 900 per head.

The coffee shop is brightly lit during
the day with perfect lighting space from
the outdoor. It is dimly lit during the
night but the space and the arrangement of tables accordingly is what
catches the eye. The near perfect mix
of space, lighting and privacy makes it
a real marvel in terms of design. The
design sure gives scope to add covers,
but the Taj group wants it to be the
way it is and it seems to best for the
comfort of guests too. Well planned
and stylish on the whole.

service
The coffee shop holds innovative promotion from time to time. Service is
efficient. Watch out for Sundays Trunch
– Combo of lunch and tea.

ideal for
Family, Business chats, dating

information

recommended

Seating capacity: 68
covers. Timing: 24
hours. Bar attached.

Khao Galli and Trunch.
try even the Gujarati and
Rajasthani delicacies.

Renamed the Zodiac under ITC management, this bright and spacious coffee
shop welcomes you anytime of the day or night to satisfy your appetite. Open
24 hrs, offering multiple cuisines and a peaceful dining environment.

food

ambience

Salads, Sandwiches and Burgers make
up all-day dining options. Choose between Indian and Continental fares;
start with the Murg Afghani Kebab and
Mahi Tikka Ajwaini, then move on to
Tarara Jhingha and Andhra specials like
Meriyali Kodi (chicken in spicy gravy).
For Continental try Fish Amandine (pan
fried in lemon butter sauce) and
Poached Fish in White Wine sauce.
Finish with Elaneer Payasam (tender
coconut in cardamom milk).

An appeasing combination of wood and
steel paneling gives the coffee shop a
well-balanced look. CafĂŠ style furniture
with teak chairs, marble top tables and
a wall-to-wall couch looks comfortable
yet elegant. The floor is adorned with
pretty designs made with tile bits. On
one side, large windows overlook the
lawns and swimming pool, making your
dining experience a very picturesque
one. The place has a huge cascading
wooden art piece on the ceiling.

service
The buffet spread attracts most clientele; ordering a la carte brings in the
courteous services of the staff.

Hyderabad can now boast of a whole new breed of Pubs which have catapulted wild imaginations of partying. Few oldies are evergreen, but the latest
additions have great designs, best liquor and a great attitude too. Our Pick.

360 DEGREES
Get the best of bar, lounge and
club at one venue; 360 Degrees offers an all round partying experience

AHALA
Initially promoted as a
Resto-bar, it is now being given a night club
image with more of
drama element being
brought in. Elegant in
style.

EXCESS
Tasteful luxury, top-notch live entertainment, Concert freaks, the
finest food and drink. Excess is
for the select few that savour the
extraspecial in life.

LIQUIDS
ETCETERA
The first original lounge in
Hyderabad, this born again entity is one of the few with views
and class booze.

SPOIL
The latest entrant into
the lounge scene, Spoil
enthralls.

BOTTLES &
CHIMNEY

The most prominent address for a great night on
the town.

TOUCH
One of those places that
set the lounge scene in
Hyderabad on fire, Touch
has showed the way to
other places that have
tried to make a mark.
Renovated and reopened
after a small hiatus,
Touch came back to rekindle the magic.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

197

198

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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

199

360 Degrees

Shangri-La Plaza, Rd No.2 Banjara Hills, Hyderabad
Ph. 9010203114

The experience of a bar, a lounge and a nightclub all rolled into one, 360
Degrees gives you that all-round feel for a great night out; choose your poison
and drink, lounge and dance the night away.

ambience

crowd

music

With 3 separate sections â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Sky Bar, VIP
Lounge and Main
Lounge with dance
floor, the place give you
ample choices for your
evening out. The Sky
Bar is equipped with a
skylight that gives a feel
of the open starlit night
sky. The VIP Lounge
with its silver leather
couches lends a luxurious feel.

Visited by the young and
old, 360 Degrees is a hit
among the party crowd.
With the kind of options
available here, some opt
to sit by the bar and
drink, some to lounge
around and many to
shake a leg on the
dance floor.

360 has many resident
DJs to choose from.DJ
Murthy spins some
wicked House and Progressive Trance, and a
deal in the making with
Ministry of Sound will
get international DJs to
swoon the crowds. A
Jazz Bar is being added.

service
The service is of high quality; bartenders always attend to you at the bar and stewards will keep a check
on your table for ordering and repeating.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Cocktails and mix drinks.
Beers are always popular. Shots and shooters
do their rounds too.

Ladies
Night
on
Wednesday.Happy Hours
7pm-9pm, Half Price
Drinks

Couple Rs.400-600
Cover Charge Rs.1500
for a couple on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Initially promoted as a Resto-bar, it is now being given a night club image with
more of drama element being brought in. Elegant in style, it is one of the most
elegant and sophisticated in crowd and theme.

ambience

crowd

music

The night club has a
different look at every
pocket of itself. More of
a Drama lounge; the
presentation is great,
the lighting colourful. It
has blended Malaysian
and Thai architecture
well into itself with
cream and red brown
colors doing a lot of
rounds across. Kerala
boathouse chairs adorn
the place.

Given the ambience and
the standards maintained by the Taj, Ahala
by all reasons gets the
cream. Ahala attracts
expatriates in huge
number,
in-house
guests as well as youngsters between 21-35
years.

Music played is mostly
house, progressive and a
little bit of Bollywood.
You eat, drink and dance
wherever you are at
Ahala.

service
Efficient, fast and well-mannered. You can expect huge
variety of cocktails at the counter.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Three bar counter dispense the best of spirits,
wines and cocktails in
town.

With a huge collection of rare liquor, innovative promotions and home-made
Martinis, Atrium is a popular lounge bar with a cozy feel to it. A nice watering
hole to have a quiet drink

ambience

crowd

music

The Atrium Bar at Taj
Residency signifies the
true spirit of sophistication. Wood has been
used to perfection in the
lounge bar and the cane
furniture allow for comfortable seating. The
lighting is perfect and
well managed giving the
place gives a very easy
feel as soon as one enters it without losing on
its grandeur.

The lounge bar attracts
Corporates and in-house
guests. But with a lot
of promotions going on,
the hotel is fast attracting plenty of executives
and even call center kind
of crowd.

An international performer from Ukraine performs live Jazz and country music. The hotel
belives in live music and
does it best to get the
best talents from around
the world.

service
Tajâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfection in service standards is easily visible
right from the lobby, the lounge bar and till the time
you depart.

damage to wallet
Rs.800 per head

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet,
Tel.: 040-2340 0132

Dublin

Hyderabad-16

The Pub at the luxurious ITC Kakatiya hotel, Dublin is one of the few places in
town, true to its genre and it gives its stimulating essence out in every nook and
cranny of the elegant pub.

ambience

crowd

music

The place is well
themed like an Irish or
perhaps British Pub;
lots and lots of wood has
been used, in fact almost
everything is made of it,
lending it a very old tavern style design. The bar
is central and is pretty
big; lots of place to order drinks from. During
the week the pub environment is maintained;
on Saturday nights it
becomes a nightclub.

The place mostly sees
corporate executives
drop in for a few drinks
and some good retro
music during the weekdays. On weekends a
younger, party crowd
comes in to revel. Many
crowd pulling events are
also planned here.

On the weekdays one
usually gets to hear
retro, rock, country and
music from the 70’s,
80’s. Saturday night fever comes in and the
tunes change over to
house, progressive and
some hip hop too.

typical order

themes & discounts

Beer is available on tap,
and pitchers are a good
deal. Find Jagermeister
here.

service
Service is professional; the bartenders are kept busy
but don’t keep the guests waiting. Get service at
your tables also.

Pool is free
Saturdays Party Nights

damage to wallet
Rs.800-1000, more for
wines

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

203

Enigmaa

Minerva Grand, SD Rd, Secunderabad-3.
Tel.: 040-6611 7373

The pub at the Minerva Grand, Enigmaa has over the years built a reputation
for itself and is a popular hang out for some drinks and good times. Its decor is
contemporary and well balanced.

ambience

crowd

music

The pub has some interesting design elements like the rings
hanging from the ceiling which play along
with the innovative
lighting of the place.
The seating comprises
plush leather couches
and glass tables to rest
your drink on. Bar stools
are snazzy and the walls
have show bottles to
add to the dĂŠcor.

Apart from the hotel
guests dropping in for
their drinks, the pub is
frequented by the IT and
BPO professionals from
the
nearby
Secunderabad commercial district

The music played spans
all genres; depending on
the mix of crowd the DJ
shuffles
between
Bollywood, Hip Hop,
Rock n Roll and some
electronic music as
well. The tunes are
peppy and keep your
feet tapping.

service
Service is cordial; drinks reach you in a timely manner, the bartender creates them with professionalism.

typical order

themes & discounts

Apart from the ever
popular beer, a good mix
of whiskey and vodka
also flows out.

Promotions keep happening so you need to
look out.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

damage to wallet
Couple Rs.600-800

205

Escape

Hotel Green Park, Greenlands, Begumpet, Hyd-16.
Tel.: 6651 5151

The ‘rock-star’ pub at the Green Park Hotel, Escape has been around for a long
time and is one of the oldest pubs in town. It keeps to its name and allows
guests to escape from the day’s toil.

ambience

crowd

music

Located in the basement, the pub is well
sheltered from sunlight
and is lit up in red on
the inside. LED lighting
in red and blue gives it
a unique characteristic.
Red seems to be the
main theme, as majority of the LED lights and
the couches are of the
colour. The chairs have
red and black upholstery, in a chequered
pattern.

It is an out and out rock
n roll kind of place; with
head-bangers filling up
the pub on nights of rock
music. On weekdays the
crowd mainly comprises
people from IT companies, BPO employees
and college students.

Though the music spans
most genres here, rock
and metal seem to be
the favourites. The DJ
dishes out the usual Hip
Hop and Rock, with Fridays solely for Rock
Nights and Sundays for
Desi Nights.

typical order

themes & discounts

Beer is available on tap
and is the most popular
liquid consumed here.

One on One free for
beers, Sunday to Thursday

service
The bartenders in zebra print shirts serve you nicely;
around special musical events, the bartenders put on
their own show with flame tricks over the bar.

A blend of a luxury designer lounge, live concert arena and lifestyle club, it is
the largest and only world class entertainment centre in Hyderabad spread
across 10,000 sq.ft and with two floors entertaining around 1,200 people at a
time.

ambience

crowd

music

Designed by French Interior Designers Soren
Eriksen & Nathalie
Craps, Excess is stylish
and is done up with comfortable circular lounge
seating for larger groups,
wave seating for smaller
groups and bar stools for
individuals. An outdoor
lounge , a VIP lounge on
the first floor overlooking the dance floor and
space to host a private
party are add ons.

The main age group visiting Excess is between
22-44 years old and the
place is usually packed
with young professionals,
businessmen,
CEOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, tourists and celebrities.

DJ Yogi & DJ Manish
belt great Jazz, Blues,
house, progressive
trance and hip-hop. The
live performances include varied genre of
western and Indian music, stand up comedians,
plays and celebrity guest
DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

typical order

themes & discounts

Beer, cocktails, Foreign
liquor

Thursdays:
Ladies
night; Wednesday:
Bollywood; Fridays: Concert Night

208

service
The four bar counters have friendly, attitude free bartenders and surely add to the entire experience.

Of all the elements available here in the world the spirits of fifth element are
quite high at Fortune Katriya. Besides Kuchipudi, Fifth element is an exciting
pub that offers swinging lives at the dawn.

ambience

crowd

music

The tone is set out to
get sophisticated over a
wine with an elegant
and sober ambience.
There is no noise of a
raucous water hole; the
atmosphere is cool and
calm. Multi-cuisine food
and liquids keep your
enzymes busy to
quench your apatite.
The home theater adds
a unique setting and the
dining experience leaves
you elevated.

The usual visiting crowds
are the people from business houses in and
around who come to
spend their quality time
in peace.

Big television screen
with an excellent music
system. Excellent place
to enjoy the rock music
with hip hop.

An offering from the BJN group, Firangi Paani is an old English style pub that
takes you back to the colonial times to witness first hand the beauty of a British
(theme) tavern.

ambience

crowd

music

Recreating British tavern ambience, the pub
has an elegant décor
with antique lamps,
painted glass, rich
woodwork and dark
green upholstery. Using
oak barrels to create
standing tables adds on
the tavern look. Colonial
influence is evident from
the rifles and fishing
kits, signifying the sports
of hunting and fishing.

Crowd at Firangi Paani
is a genuine blend of the
young and the not so.
Happy hours attract a
lot of ‘after-office-hours’
clientele. Many working
professionals drop in for
a drink or two to unwind
and converse.

In keeping with the pub
theme, the music played
is mostly soft rock and
soothing retro. Nightfall
sees a change in attitudes as the dance floor
is opened up and the DJ
switches on to hip hop
and house with some
Bollywood mixed in.

typical order

themes & discounts

Beer. With one on one
free during happy hours
anything you order will
be doubled for you.

Happy Hours 4pm8:30pm, Buy One get
One Free

210

service
The service is quick and efficient; during happy hours
they are quick to serve you the second free drink.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a cozy cute bar which offers a unique range of cocktails and a wide array of
drinks both from Indian and foreign brands. People visiting here can enjoy
heaps of happy hours and experience spending quality time.

ambience

crowd

music

High spirits is a lobbing
bar with a cozy enclosure. On entering you
will find a separate section where glittering
wine bottles are arranged on the upper
shelf. The seating on the
left are exotic with luxury
sofas. Dim and non-glazy
light with low volume
music makes the place
altogether exciting.

Usual visiting crowds
are from Corporate, Telecommunication sector
and the IT people. Due
to its proximity to many
government offices and
legislative assembly bureaucrats and politicians
too visit the place to
enjoy their evenings.

Music is at guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discretion and can enjoy
from classical to rock on
demand.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Usually Beer but IMFL
moves too.

For every two pegs one
peg is complimentary
during the Happy hours.

Rs. 600-650 per couple

service
Service is excellent. You have the bartender always
ready to serve you the best of the brands of national
and international repute.

A compact and snazzy discotheque at the Leonia Resorts, Leo Vegas inspires
you to enjoy the high life of nightclubs. A mix of old and young, some to lounge
and some to dance.

ambience

crowd

music

Built in a small area, the
club has a mezzanine
floor that takes care of
the space constraints.
With seating on both
levels, the black leather
couches offer much
comfort. The small bar
is lined with blue tube
lighting and lends a nice
blue hue. The wooden
dance floor and the projector screen for visual
effects make a good
combination.

Mostly visited by guests
from the resort, the club
also sees walk-in guests
who drop by to shake a
leg. Many private parties
are also organised here
and one can have the
entire club to themselves.

Since the club operates
on the presence of clientele, their requests go
a long way here. The DJ
spins out a selection of
rock,
hip
hop,
bollywood, house and
trance; but guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; demands are always given
preference.

typical order

themes & discounts

A wide range of liquor
options are available
here. Beers are popular
as ever.

Free Entry for In-house
Guests

service
Service is prompt and efficient. The bartender does a
good job with serving up drinks.

The upscale and trendy lounge at the lavish Leonia Resorts, Leo Moments is
quite an experience and creates moments to enjoy and cherish. Lounge, relax
and unwind in this classy venue.

ambience

crowd

music

Done up in all black, the
lounge offers a sharp and
smart ambience to relax in. The plush black
leather couches set
around the round tables
are luxurious and comfy.
The bar looks elegant
and the large red
coloured bar chairs are
an added attraction. The
ceiling is adorned with
red, blue and green tube
lighting in a wavy pattern.

Being situated in the
resort, Leo Moments is
often visited by in-house
guests, and might see
some walk-in guests
also drop by for a drink
after walking the resort
area. The kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theatre
next to the lounge keeps
children busy.

Being a lounge, Leo
Moments tends to promote lounge music; but
always keeping the
guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interests in
mind, whatever the public demands, the DJ
spins. Find a mix of musical genres at this
venue.

typical order

themes & discounts

The bar serves up the
best in whiskeys and foreign liquors.

Discounts are the usual
corporate benefit. Promotions happen often.

service
Service is professional with well trained staff taking
care of every need and demand of the guests.

damage to wallet
Couple Rs.400-500

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

215

Level Lounge

Central court Hotel, Lakdi ka pul, Hyderabad-4
Tel.: 23232737

Placed in Central court, Level lounge is a bar and restaurant which offers both
liquor and food. Excellently decorated with blue and sober sulphur lights, the
place is a worth visit.

ambience

crowd

music

High spirits opens its
door in to level lounge
which is highly decorated with a combination of steel and glass.
Soft leather sofas are
spread across with one
side a stair case leading
to an upper tier private
dining room. On the
other at the top there
is a glass cabin for the
DJ to play the music.

Plenty of young people
from BPO and IT sectors come out to hang
at level lounge in the
evenings. Though the
crowds seem to be thin
during the week, it
grows on the week
ends.

The DJ plays you the
music of your life that
roars through the levels
and make you rock on
the dance platform.

service
On being here you can expect a pleasurable experience, the staff is professional and caring.

The first original lounge in Hyderabad and probably even India, Liquid Etcetera, which has born again from Liquids Again, is one of the few lounge bars
offering extensive views of the city expanse from the fifth floor.

ambience

crowd

music

Designed by New York
based designer Sameep
Padora, the lounge bar
gives an initial impression of Black and white,
but wait a while as the
lights seep in and you
have red, blues, yellows
and all thrown in. Scintillating aura emanates
from the charcoal burn
effect at the bar counter
created through the
lighting. The angular
seating is unique.

Having revamped the
place again, the lounge
bar gets a lot of fresh
faces apart from the
regulars which are
mostly in the age group
of 25 to 30 plus.

DJ Ajay is the USP of
Liquids Etcetera and he
plays a lot of Rock and
Retro, as well as
Bollywood mainly depending on the day
theme.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Signature cocktails and
Foreign Liquor

Fridays: Barbie Fridays;
Sunday: Bollywood
Nights. Lunch platter

Rs 1000 plus per head

service
Young staff and very jovial. Knows the needs of the
regulars. They are one reason why the lounge bar
gets repeat customers.

True to its name, this lounge in the lobby of the Ista Hotel is spacious and a
comfortable venue for your mood to relax and get the feel of being yourself with
few strings attached.

ambience
Situated indoors, the
lounge offers picturesque
views of the surrounding
outdoors. Themed to
represent sophistication
with its plush couches,
the earthy hues and
brown shades provide a
warm setting. Bar seating is gorgeous with a
mesmerising cascading
fountain in full view behind the bartender. The
place is ideal to have a
relaxed drink with a
minute hit to your wallet, but it is worth every
penny you spend. The
aura is amazing and so
is the drink variety and
service.

typical order
The summer months see chilled beers flow out; otherwise the in-demand spirit is Grey Goose vodka, not
available in most other places in town. The liquor
collection boasts of top shelf tequila and an excellent
selection of imported Scotch Whiskey; branded cigars complete the range. Mediterranean Dips, Jalapeno
Poppers and BBQ Chicken Wings make for some
scrumptious snack options.

service
The bartender takes good care of his patrons; the
drinks are artistically created and served with professionalism.

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Look out for discounts
and promotions which
are often thrown in.

Couple Rs.1000-1500,
higher for Wines and
Cocktails

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

219

ambience

crowd

music

service

typical order

220

themes & discounts

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

damage to wallet

Mustang Bar

Hotel Green Park, Greenlands, Begumpet, Hyd-16.
Tel.: 6651 5151

One of the most iconic bars in the city - the Mustang Bar - has had a fantastic
makeover. Located at Green Park Hotel, Mustang Bar combines aesthetic beauty
with practical environment design to create a truly international ambience.

ambience

crowd

music

The classy atmosphere
of Mustang Bar is created with an eclectic
mix of textures and lighting. The double-hued
walls and the back-lit
tables give a truly worldclass feel to the place.
Ideal for a quite, refreshing evening out. The
decor is pleasing and yet
chic, making the Mustang Bar a unique place
in the city.

Guests at the Mustang
Bar mostly comprise the
corporate professionals
who like a quiet, classy
place to both have a
pleasant evening, and a
business discussion at
the same time. In house
guests too visit.

In keeping with its decor and personality, the
Mustang Bar plays soft
music like Jazz and
Blues, giving the bar a
subtle, understated
feel.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

With a good mix of imported and domestic liquor, the Mustang Bar
serves a good range.

Watch out for promotons
and discounts. The renovated bar opened in July2009.

Rs.800 - Rs. 1000 for
a couple

service
The staff is pleasant to interact with and know a
great deal about liquor and food. Combined with great
food, the service makes the visit charming.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

221

Marco Polo

ITC Kakatiya, Begumpet,
Tel.: 040-2340 0132

Hyderabad-16,

The ‘whiskey bar’ at the ITC Kakatiya, Marco Polo is steeped in classical tradition and its name was inspired by the explorer’s connection with Hyderabad.
No wonder, it is has design elemts that head back to the past.

ambience

crowd

music

Grand and spacious is
what comes to mind as
soon as one enters.
Plush leather couches to
sink in and relax. The
huge glass windows
overlook the pool and
foliage below. The walls
have pictures of Marco
Polo the great explorer;
the most interesting feature is Marco Polo’s map
on the wall and table.

This posh bar is visited
mostly by in-house
guests who come down
for their complimentary
evening drinks. Later a
mix of in-house guests
and corporate biggies
hang out at the bar for
some drinks and conversation.

Music played here is
mostly western peppy
tunes, uplifting the
moods of anyone sipping
on their drink.

service
The service is smart and exceptional, 5 star quality.
ITC’s standards are evident as always.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

OH Bar

The Golkonda hotel, Masabtank, Hyderabad-28
Tel.: 66110131

Calm and quite it is the right place for the Middle aged people to spend their
evenings wining leisurely. Cynosure of top business oldies OH bar offers excellent closed environs for people who seek peace of mind from their hectic work.

ambience

crowd

music

Black and white zebra
stripes on the spongy
seating catch the eye as
soon as one enters the
bar. Contrasting well
with the essentially
creamy subordinates of
the restaurant the
stripes covers most of
the back-rest of the sofa.
Lighting is bright in the
afternoons and evenings
but during late nights its
dim as it draws the main
lighting from the lobby.

Usual crowds are the
middle aged business
men from the near and
far business houses in
the city.

Guests can choose their
own music from the Juke
Box which is a light
hand held wireless compact electronic box. Otherwise by default light
classical music is always
on.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Jonnie Walker, Blue
Flame and Jinn.

Happy hours from
11:00am to 7:30pm.
For every 2 pegs you get
1 complementary.

Couple Rs.750-1000,
higher for Wines and
Cocktails

service
The bartender is always anxious to serve your favourite
brand. The music box is the unique facility offered at
the bar.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

223

ON Lounge

Rd. No.2 Banjara Hills, Near TDP Office, Hyd-34.
Tel.: 040-4002 1222

Lounge like a celebrity is what comes to mind when one visits the ON Lounge.
An artistically designed venue that is frequented by celebrities and page 3
personalities, it is the place to be in town.

ambience

crowd

music

Vastly spread over an
area of three floors, the
lounge is beautifully
crafted. First thing that
one notices is the bar
counter with a special
etched glass which
when illuminated creates a shadow pattern
that looks like intricate
carvings. The bar has a
huge cascading fountain
behind on which the
projector screens visual
effects.

The launch of this venue
saw some of the biggest
names from Tollywood
and other celebrities on
the guest list. And since
the commencement,
the crowd here has always been elite and fits
the bill for such a snazzy
place.

The DJ spins the best of
Electronic Dance Music,
from lounge to house to
trance, its all there. DJ
Iggy, DJ Freeze and
Sungirl from Russia are
some of the big names
to have performed here.

service
The professionalism and skill set of the service is in
line with the sophistication that this venue brings with
it.

typical order

themes & discounts

The liquor selection is
amazing; probably one of
the very few places to
serve bourbon whiskeys

Special events on weekends; international guest
DJs

224

damage to wallet
Couple Rs.400-500

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

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225

On the Rocks

Hotel Urvasi, Punjagutta,
Tel.: 040-2342 0548

Hyderabad-82

The newly established pub at Hotel Urvasi, On The Rocks is the continuation of
pub culture set in Yatri Nivas many years ago; this new venue has metamorphosed into a graceful offshoot of the original.

ambience

crowd

music

A pub with a very
lounge like theme, On
The Rocks is designed
in a long but spacious
way. The ceiling is done
up in shades of brown
in textured patterns that
compliments the black
leather stools and
couches paired with
low tables. The dĂŠcor is
abstract design, with a
small dance floor and a
snazzy DJ booth. Bar is
tidy and well stocked.

Being relatively new to
the pub scene, the place
is seeing some crowd
but is yet to climb up the
popularity charts. Mostly
visited by working professionals from the surrounding commercial
area, males form the
majority of the guests.

The DJ plays a mix of
genres here, with
lounge and electronic
music given preference.
Thursdays and Fridays
are for Bollywood nights
with Saturdays playing a
mix of club music. Sound
system is good and a
large LCD for sports.

typical order

themes & discounts

Beer is available on tap.
There is a good selection of IMFL.

Thursday,
FridayBollywood Night

service
Service is tidy; the newness of the place keeps the
stewards on their best behaviour to impress guests.

damage to wallet
Couple Rs.300-500

Saturday-Club Night
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227

Outswinger

Baseraa Hotel, S.D Road,
Tel.: 040-27703200, 27704745

Secundrabad.

This pub has a strong cricket motif, and you can really enjoy it when you are
watching a cricket match on their large TV with a little something in your hand
to toast Tendulkar every time he hits a four.

ambience

crowd

music

The place is a cozy corner lighted with winy
dark glare-free lights. All
the poster boys of the
game of the cricket are
here. Literally on poster
around the pub, the admiration and tribute to
the heroes is heartfelt
and resonates in the
memorabilia of the
game displayed. The
walls are covered with
black and white prints
of cricketing legends.

The crowds here are
nothing less than the
passionate lovers of the
game. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really a great
gala time for them during the major cricketing
events.

The only music you here
on match days is live
Cricket on the wide
screen. On the normal
days you can get your
choice of music from the
classical
pile
of
bollywood oldies to
Spanish, with Enrique
Iglesias.

service
Waiters are all dressed in cricket whites and wear
sneakers. They are a cheerful crowd, and like to laugh
and joke with the customers.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Try Beamers. Also the
in-house blend of drinks
especially Vodka based
cocktails

Occasionally offers special lunch schemes.

Rs650 to 750 inclusive
of snacks.

228

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Ohri’s 1857

Jal-Vihar, Necklace
Tel.: 9866778022

Road,

Hyderabad.

‘1857’ perched on the first floor is designed to take their guests back in time. It
is Hyderabad’s first Colonial themed Restro-Bar at Jalvihar. Taken from a page of
History the restaurant gives one a feel of the grand Raj era.

ambience

crowd

music

Plenty of design elemts
woven into the this
lounge bar. The roof is
white with semi-dome
shaped fibre ceiling.
The lights, fans and the
seating are designed in
an old colonial style.
While the lamps hang
from wall, the fans are
erected from the floor.
The interiors are themed
like a Colonial Club reflecting the life-style
from the days of the Raj

The settings are truly
set for people who wish
to experience the kingly
lifestyle. If you are not
bothered to spending
than you are the right
person to enjoy every
moment of your stay in
1857 with all the kingly
luxury at your disposal.

No dance platform, but
one can enjoy non-stop
music ranging from classical to modern pop.

An Indian ‘Rural Pub’, Pmatka is a welcome change to the city’s pub scene
with its unique theme and charm.

ambience

crowd

music

A ‘desi’ pub from end to
end, Pmatka has
earthen clay coloured
walls covered with rural paintings, and gives
the impression of a true
village scene. In contrast to this, the walls
are also covered with
interesting beer stickers
and posters. With new
management taking
over, graffiti was spray
painted around the
place.

New management has
done wonders for this
place with rock and
metal music taking priority has brought in a lot
of head-banging crowds.
Mostly stags inhabit the
place.

The DJ plays music every night and his selection varies between
Rock, House, Hip Hop
and Bollywood. Rock
and Metal are the preferred genres now, as
many live bands and
open guitar nights are
organised.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Beers are popular here,
though some enjoy taking vodka shots.

Happy Hours 12pm10:30pm, Buy One get
One Free

Couple Rs.300-500;
Happy Hours 12pm10:30pm

230

service
The service is neat and tidy; sit at the bar and the
bartender gives you good company.

The pub at the Katriya De Royal hotel, Rock On is a good place for a rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
good time and it sure delivers in terms of good ambience, music and finger
foods.

ambience

crowd

music

The pub has a lounge
like feel to it, with
ample brown leather
couches and round
tables. Shades of beige
are mixed with predominant dark brown woodwork, making the place
darker. The bar counter
has yellow lighting inside
and has a projector
screen next to it. There
is a dance floor too.

A young crowd always
seems to be at this
place mostly emanating
from the BPO sector.
Though weekends only
get to see the rush.
Many private parties are
booked here also.

Mostly playing rock music, they span all genres
also. DJ Sreeni has good
selection and ladies
nights on Thursdays see
the women on the dance
floor under disco lights.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

The bar is small but well
stocked with IMFL. They
do have some imported
wines also.

Happy Hours 4pm7:30pm, Buy One Get
One Free

Couple Rs.400-500.
Buy One Get One Free;
Happy Hours 4pm7:30pm

service
The service is satisfactory; bartender serves well and
stewards get your orders if you have a table.

Rocks is the hotel bar in Ellaa Suites; a small but classy place, it is an ideal
place to unwind and relax over your preferred drink. A drink or two at this bar
would be the perfect compliment to your visit to the hotel.

ambience

crowd

music

The bar has a ‘lounge’
feel to it. The brown
colour theme is contrasted with dark green
and dark pink upholstered couches, and
colourful paintings adorn
the backlit wooden panels. Adding a sophisticated touch to it is the
wine rack embedded in
a wall. The far end is
glass walled and offers
a great view.

Mostly the hotel guests
visit the bar. Otherwise
expect to find high-end
business executives discussing matters over a
few drinks. Visitors of the
hotel spa also drop in to
sip up fruit juices or
mocktails.

Going along the ‘lounge’
feel of the bar, the music played here is also of
the lounge genre. There
is no DJ, and the soft
chill-out tunes keep you
occupied without trying
to grab your attention.

service
Two bartenders, who go around their business in a
neat, professional manner, operate the bar. The bar is
well stocked with international brands.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Scotch and wines. Liquors such as Bailey’s,
Kahlua and Cognac are
also available.

Themed around 4 statues in the lobby which depict the 4 seasons, it is a one of
its kind classic style bar with who’s who being the patrons. A must visit when
you have a heavy wallet.

ambience

crowd

music

Guests can relax and
unwind in this charming
bar, offering an eclectic
collection of fine spirits,
cognacs, and cigars for
the connoisseur. Situated just beside the
lobby, it is a fine place
for serious conversations. The calmness of
the whole Taj Krishna in
its sophistication is evident.

Being in a lounge bar in
one of the top restaurants in the twin cities
has its own advantage,
especially with the
crowd, with who’s who
in the twin cities,
Corporates and top notch
in-house guests seen
here.

They have live music
from time to time.
Waheda Carmel Gomes
from Goa currently performs live with Jazz and
Western. Otherwise the
lobby channel music is
also on.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Wines, Margaritas, highend scotch, single malts,
vodkas.

Popular for themes and
promotions especially
wines and Margaritas.

Starts from about
Rs.1000 per head

234

service
A huge selection of spirits and wines and knowledgeable service.

The latest entrant into the lounge scene, Spoil is the brainchild of three top
restaurateurs of the city who wish to pamper you in this exotic setting and they
really do succeed.

ambience

crowd

music

An out and out lounge,
Spoil is done up smartly
in black with red contrasts paying beautiful
compliments to the
look. The dark red
couches are long and
meandering, and offer a
novel concept in lounging. The bar is long and
extensively well stocked.
One side is glass walled
and offers vistas of Jubilee Hills.

Being a brand new establishment, Spoil has
been seeing crowds
thronging in to have an
experience of the place.
The looks and feel of the
place demand an elite
crowd and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly
what the place gets.

In keeping with the
lounge theme, the music played here is strictly
lounge only. They try not
to encourage other
genres to play spoil-sport
with their concept; and
make sure the music is
never loud.

service
The service is good; the newness of the place means
special care being taken of guests.

One among the first pubs in entire Andhra Pradesh, Underdeck is a fine pub
with an elegant ship décor and is one of the popular haunts among young
executives in the twin cities.

ambience

crowd

music

As the name suggests,
the pub’s décor is a nautical one. Underdeck is
known for its Long Island
Iced Teas and shooters
and offers the entertainment of a four-piece International Band. The
bar counter is bright and
the wooden flooring sets
the mood for some foot
tapping.

it is crowded with regulars, who haven't considered going anywhere
else in a long time because right here they
have everything they
need. Otherwise, the
pub attracts in-house
guests, young college
goers and executives.

Music is good. They
have provided two options for music lovers. A
live Filipino band plays
here. The pub also has
an in-house DJ who
plays Pop and Jazz. The
dance floor is a great
addition.

service
The place is cozy but does not give the feel of getting
suffocated even when the crowd is huge. Taj brand
name shows in the service.

A classy watering hole it is a cozy place, well designed and ideal for few swigs
through out the day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both hard as well as beer. The promotions offered do
make you do it for a while and the next day!

ambience
Beige couches contrasts
well with the couches
covered with black
cushions. Beanbags add
to the overall look.
White is abundantly used
in the whole restaurant.
Overall, the ambience
has been designed with
great taste and goes
well with the lounge bar
concept.

crowd

music

The lounge bar is
mostly patronised by
business people from in
and around Parklane.
But it is not the kind of
place where you have
no place to sit or there
is too much of noise.
The sophistication is
evident.

The place plays background music often
highlighted by light
trance, progressive and
house music.

service
Being a cozy place, the staff is adequate and sharp
in terms of order delivery.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Beer is the best bet here
and the offer highlighted
is 3 bottles of beer in a
classy place at Rs 400

Regular guests are offered 15% discount
while for the first time,
it is 10%.

The lounge bar at the Katriya De Royal hotel, Whiskey Joe has nice settings by
the pool side and great happy hours. Just the perfect place in the middle of the
city for a relaxed guzzle.

ambience

crowd

music

The bar is located right
by the entrance and the
seating is quite spaciously set. Though it is
a small place, the high
dome like ceiling gives
it an open feel. Evenings
are best spent outside in
the lawns and poolside.
The great part of the
outlet is the location,
right in the midst of the
where the happening
crowd resides.

Mostly visited by inhouse guests, the bar
also sees some businessmen and IT/BPO professionals drop in during
the evening happy
hours. A good place to
unwind after a hard
dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work.

Being a whiskey bar,
ghazals are the only
tunes played here.
Sometimes live performances also grace the
venue. Listen to Pankaj
Udhas and Jagjeet
Singh croon.

service
Small bar and one bartender, service is adequate; stewards serve you well, and bring your orders by the
poolside.

typical order

themes & discounts

The bar is small but well
stocked with IMFL.
They do have some imported wines also.

A one of its kind outlet, this sports lounge is refreshing and provides most
modern experience of viewing sport in the ambient aura along with great beverages and food.

ambience

crowd

music

Tastefully designed, the
sports bar has a artificial wooden rood with
black and white scratch
effect, horizontal tile
wooden flooring, 8 LCD
screen, 2 projectors, 3
PDRs, several bean
bags, high and low seating, lot of wood use and
photo frames of sports
and sports stars. Definitely a place with a
high bar on innovative
design.

Frequented by people
mostly in the age group
of 25-40. The place attracts many business
executives and working
professionals.

Xtreme Sports Bars primarily plays only rock of
all genre and the place
rocks with its great
sound system.

service
Very friendly and worth mentioning is a chat with the
manager operations, Rohit Sakhuja. Definitely friendly
and enterprising.

One of those places that set the lounge scene in Hyderabad on fire, Touch has
showed the way to other places that have tried to make a mark. Renovated and
reopened after a small hiatus, Touch came back to rekindle the magic.

ambience

crowd

music

The white colour theme
creates an aura of purity and urges you to
have a touch and feel of
the place. Thin draped
cloth over the lighting
looks luxurious and the
changing colours of the
lights transcends the
place from one shade to
another. The long bar
with red light background grabs your attention. The ‘Ice Bar’ is a
fascinating concept.

Since its commencement, Touch has always
managed to rope in the
elite crowd. Many
Tollywood celebrities are
spotted here from time
to time and so are page
3 personalities. Ex-pats
and corporate executives
also drop by.

With limited days of
functioning, the music
comes with its limitations too; there are
Bollywood numbers
aplenty on Sunday
nights and foot banging
trance and techno
tracks for Party Nights
on Saturdays.

service
With such an elite group of people visiting the place,
the staff and service are of high standards and live up
to the expectations.

typical order

themes & discounts

damage to wallet

Martinis are the speciality drinks; Apple Martinis is a favourite. Beers
are popular too.

Ladies Night on
Wednesday, Club Night
on Saturday, Bollywood
on Sunday

Couple Rs.600-800
Cover Charge on Wed
and Sat: Rs.1500 per
couple

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In the following pages, you will find some of the top restaurateurs that Hyderabad
and Secunderabad have seen since some time. They have proven track record
in the business and have been striding ahead with new and better concepts,
refresh dĂŠcor and the best of delicacies that a kitchen can offer.

Amar (L) & Ravi Ohri
Ohriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Group

A Vijayavardhan Reddy
Minerva Grand

Shankar Krishnamurthy
Fusion 9

Arjun Valluri
Excess Club n Lounge

J Vamshi Dhar Rao
Liquids Etcetera

Srikala Reddy
Touch

Ali Hemati
Paradise

Mir Anwaruddin
Hyderabad House

Sanjay Batla
Bottles & Chimney

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242

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Ravi & Amar Ohri, the father-son
duo who founded and built Ohri’s
Group into a strong brand succeeded primarily because they
understood the consumer’s need
and thus used food as a focal point
while creating unique concepts
around it.

OHRI’S
MAGIC
A civil engineer by profession, Ravi Ohri
was associated with the Oberoi Grand in
Kolkata for a long time; it is this association with the prominent hotel giant that
inspired him to venture into the hospitality industry. Starting with the rooms business, Ravi established the first 3-star
hotel in Secunderabad, Hotel Baseraa,
along with a favourite of yesteryears,
Daawat, a south Indian restaurant.
Being the first among many, the Ohri’s
group also established the first pub and
24hrs coffee shop– Outswinger and Pickles at Hotel Baseraa; and also the first
restaurant complex in South India.
Having completed his hotel management
from Switzerland and MBA from the
United States, Amar Ohri quickly followed
in his father’s footsteps, helping the Ohri’s
brand expand its presence further. Currently with 24 branded outlets spanning
food courts, restaurants and pubs, Ohri’s
is a prominent leader in the F&B industry.
The group has always been strong with
their innovative approach, keeping food
as the focal point and creating unique concepts around it.
The future looks bright as ever for the
father-son duo, as plans of creating a pan
India presence are slated to be carried
out in the next 2 years. Starting with
Bangalore, Ohri’s will consider Pune,
Mumbai and then New Delhi; with an
objective of creating a home-grown Indian brand name.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

243

A Vijayavardhan Reddy, Managing Director, Minerva Grand has played
a pivotal role in establishing Minerva as a recognisable brand name
across Andhra Pradesh
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MINERVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S
GRANDEUR
A Chartered Accountant by profession who
had the courage to take the risk in a business when hospitality had little firm roots
in the region, A Vijayavardhan Reddy
took a step forward and created along with
his Brother-in-law Prabhakar Reddy and
his brother Ramkrishna Reddy, a brand
that has today become trusted not only
for its great food, accommodation and
affordability, but contemporariness and
trust also.
The name Minerva - Roman goddess and
the inventor of music, has tactically transformed into a mammoth brand in
Hyderabad and what started with Blue
Fox in 1982, the first of its kind restaurant in those times, has today become a
name that anybody in the state can
recognise. Then on came Palace Heights
in 1986, Minerva Coffee Shop at Himayath
Nagar in 1987, and the famed Viceroy
Hotel in the 90s. After a gap, in 2001,
Blue Fox and Minerva Coffee Shop came
back in another location - Ameerpet and
in 2003, in Vijayawada. 2004 saw the
group build contemporary and stylish outlets in the form of Eat Street and Waterfront restaurant.
In 2005, they started the 3-star Minerva
Grand. 2009 saw the opening of another
Minerva Grand in Banjara Hills. With such
a repertoire and more planned in the state,
Reddy along with Chairman Prabhakar and
brother Ramkrishna is all set to reach
new heights of grandeur in days to come.

BATLA FOR
BOTTLES
It doesn’t often happen in India when two
young wannabes come up with an
entrepreneurially successful idea while
circumstantially influenced sitting in a pub!
For Restaurateur Sanjay Batla, the man
who established the longest running independent Pub in Hyderabad – Bottles &
Chimneys, “Destiny” sums up the journey. The circumstance was an innocent
request for a song to be played at the
pub, which was curtly turned down.
“That’s when we decided to open a pub
where there are people whose request
are played and played for sure,” says Batla.
B&C came up in 2002 and there has been
no looking back. Batla has since ventured
into Service Apartments (Luxor), and now
is a partner in Siaa, a restaurant with a
stylish ambience serving Indian cuisine.
“This is my first experience with a restaurant,” he says.
Batla has plans to enter the hotel business too when his ‘destiny’ calls, but for
now it is Siaa all the way. “A Pub has to
have good music and lights, the décor,
food and these days, even drinks take a
backseat. People come to pubs or clubs
to party, to socialise, not just drink to get
drunk like older days,” he said.
Ask him about his Dream Pub, the quick
revert, “B&C, without a doubt. It has everything that a pub needs; most essentially space.”

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247

SHANKAR’S
FUSION
Having been a chef by profession for about
25 years, Shankar Krishnamurthy naturally transcended into the food and beverages business back in 2003; he wanted
to create a brand with an aim to establish a chef-driven organisation. As a result, Fusion 9 was set up as a first of its
kind outlet to fill the niche segment of an
upmarket restaurant; with a varied and
exotic carte du jour, the Fusion 9 brand
name became synonymous with fine dining and has been the mainstay in serving
global cuisine in the city of Hyderabad for
6 years now.
Along with Fusion 9, Shankar also
branched out with other establishments
namely Deli 9 for amazing desserts, Grill
Room for some barbeque delicacies, and
Le Café De Art for coffees and quick bites
in an artistic ambience. Venturing into the
‘mass-dining’ concept, Shankar recently
established the F9 Diner in Kondapur to
cater to the IT/BPO professionals from the
Hi Tech City area. He has also taken his
business to within organisations by setting up small outlets under the F9 banner
at top multi-national companies like
Deloitte. Encouraged by the success of
this setup, Shankar has also planned on
foraying into the retail market, malls and
multiplexes. Plans are in place to expand
brand presence to Bangalore, Mumbai and
New Delhi.
A chef by profession Shankar
Krishnamurthy entered the business
with profound passion and the result
is for all to see.
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249

For Arjun Valluri, Xtreme Sports Bar is more than a
business venture, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a dream come true. Now with
Excess Club n Lounge, he is hitting big time.
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Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

LIFE IN
EXCESS
Having Graduated in MSc (Tech) from
Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences,
Pilani, Rajasthan, there were many aspirations in the mind of Arjun Valluri. While
in his heart, it was hospitality all the way,
the IT bug too had certain dominance.
He started Intelligroup, Inc. and served
as the Founder, Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer of the company.
Arjun is also a strategic investor in a number of Companies ranging from Software,
Business Process Outsourcing, F&B, Telecommunications to Power and Infrastructure.
His passion towards opening a sports bar
was instigated primarily because of a lack
of one in the country in an ambient aura.
Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when Xtreme Sports Bar took
shape. A sleek outlet completely focused
on Sports, through LCD screens and done
up with great taste, the essence of the
place is evident enough of Arjunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creativity.
Now with Excess, which is spread over
10000 square feet at the HICC, the largest and only world-class entertainment
experience in Hyderabad, Arjun has caught
on the concertina concept and he has
big plans for the twin cities.

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251

MIGHTY
LIQUID
J Vamshi Dhar Rao’s tryst with the hospitality sector came naturally with his family already in the business. Having been
involved with Bhaskar Palace of yesteryears, he took a break from the business
and left to the US to pursue his MBA.
Spending about six years there, he came
back with modern concepts, the thought
of which was yet to even touch
Hyderabad.
In 2003 he started Liquids and brought in
the lounge concept to the twin cities. Since
then he has been reinventing the place
every two years, bringing in new design
elements, revamped lighting and music
and even the menu. “It is necessary to
keep on inventing the place so that it does
not stagnate and the buzz is on about the
place,” said Vamshi.
His new ventures got initiated when he
was associated with the New Year’s bash
through One Alliance, which started in
2004. Since then he has been part of
Spoil - a lounge bar and Siaa - a fine dining restaurant.
Having never treated his outlets as a commercial product, Vamshi has always
strived to keep himself and his outlets
ahead of time. Vamshi is now looking at
major expansion with outlets planned
across the country and abroad. With an
unmatched zeal towards his outlets and
a matured outlook, he sure is in good
control.

252

For J Vamshi Dhar Rao, the lounge
bars and restaurants he is part of
are results of immense passion towards each of them.

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TOUCH
GRACE
They say a woman can achieve something she sets her eyes on; and that’s
precisely what Srikala Reddy achieved
through focusing on the niche segment
of high class lounge bars. Now the owner
of an up market lounge bar, along with
being an interior designer and a trained
classical dancer, she effortlessly dons
many roles with ease. Srikala says
“Women shouldn’t hesitate because something wasn’t done before”; that’s what
made her the only woman to own the
most happening lounge of the city – Touch,
bringing in a fresh perspective to the field
dominated by men. She turned things
around after some initial testing weeks.
Her tact is simple; she makes things happen instead of waiting for things to happen.

With a first of its kind, innovative
concept of the Ice Bar, Srikala Reddy
plays it cool in the hot market segment of resto-lounge with Touch.

Though Srikala has plenty to be proud of,
she is not stopping. She wants to make
Touch a brand to reckon with and plans
to expand her brand presence by introducing it in Chennai and Vizag also, along
with an in house magazine & merchandise. A new Spa in Jubilee Hills is around
the corner; this 5 floor boutique Spa is
slated to have a beauty saloon & wedding
planner facility which will be a success
story for sure. An achiever in many ways,
Srikala is vivacious and friendly, and a
tough woman entrepreneur with a clear
vision.

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

255

PARADISE
ENOW
When a small cafe serving tea and snacks
is transformed into a palatial restaurant.
becomes synonymous with the popular
delicacy of the region and above all becomes a landmark of the region, the insightful acumen of people behind it is aweinspiring. Today Paradise is a landmark
for good food especially when one thinks
of quality authentic Biryani and anyone
who visits this historic city loves to taste
the speciality dish which Paradise has
been serving since 1953 with a recipe
that has been passed down since decades
of experience
The story of Paradise. now Paradise Food
Court is just that and much more. There
were and are many people be-hind the
magnificent growth of Para-dise, but the
driving force is Ali Hemati, the suave
owner of the food court.
It was his sheer foresight and acumen
that instigated the growth of Paradise in
1978. For Hemati. the growth which took
place over a period of time and from
strength to strength was pri-marily because of the mission behind the outlet;
that of offering value for money and cater
to a cross-section of the society right from
a commoner to a celebrity.
Today the restaurant has a vast seat-ing
capacity and Hemati plans to ex-pand
across the city, the country and abroad.
With Hematiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen back-ing him, his
Biryani already famous across continents
and his acumen still as sharp, few would
have any doubts on that.

256

Ali Hemati, the man who has
drivenParadise Restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tremendous
growth over the years.

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257

258

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

‘HOUSING’
BIRYANI
Ten years back, the concept of a takeaway or a bain- marie was never heard of
in Hyderabad. What made Hyderabad and
Secunderabad familiar with this now
popular concept was one man’s thirst of
knowledge. Knowledge which could be
spread across the region and the country,
about a lifestyle that is easy, comfortable,
affordable and healthy. That was Mir
Mazharuddin, the man who founded
Hyderabad House and who pioneered the
concept of Bain-maries and take-aways
in Hyderabad.

Mir Anwaruddin, brother of Mir
Mazharuddin, the founder of Hyderabad
House Group of restaurants has played
a vital role in the success of Hyderabad
House.

Initially involved in outdoor catering business under the company name MBA Catering Services (named after his father,
Mir Baber Ali, who ran canteen services),
Mazharuddin was quick to gain immense
knowledge of contemporary service concepts during his travails abroad. He started
to sell curries by weight which was an
innovative concept. Mir Anwaruddin, his
brother was his main support during all
these innovative concept launches.
Anwaruddin used to handle institutional
catering. Their first take away and drivein outlet started at Masab Tank in 1998.
Hyderabad House now has about 34 outlets in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Vizag and
Sydney. They also have another brand –
Bowl O’ china.With Hyderabad House and
its audience of the common man to the
upper class, Mazharuddin has taken the
delicacy of the Nawabs to arms length of
desire of the ardent customer.

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259

RECIPES TO USE
While the restaurants and pub reviews attract immense readership, we have
found that there is a huge attraction towards learning recipes one has just
dined. In this section we bring few creations from the master chefs in Hyderabad,
which can be easily made at home with ingredients that are easily available in
the market at affordable prices. Here we present five recipes, including two
cocktail recipes, which you can try at home. So go ahead, get some fire and
translate these great concoctions on to your platter for some sumptuous dining
time for you and your family.

rice). As soon as it boils, add the whole
masala, rice and salt.Cook till ¾ done
and then drain.Remove the whole
masala. Melt ghee and set aside.
Assemble: Take a heavy-bottomed

dekchi and add the marinated mutton
and ½ of the melted ghee. Cover with
chopped pudina and kothmir, fried onion and slit green chilies and juice of
half a lemon. Spread the rice over this.
Sprinkle the remaining ghee, coloring
or saffron milk and lemon juice.
Cover and seal the dekchi with atta

paste. Place over high heat for 2025minutes.Lower heat and cook for another45 minutes.Allow to dum. Serve
hot

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

Gourmet Guide Hyderabad - 2009

263

Courtesy: Pradeep Khosla, Executive
Chef, Taj Krishna

Courtesy: Sachin Joshi, Executive
ChefTaj Deccan

Daliya

Khubani ka Meetha
Ingredients

Quantity

Dried apricots, soaked
For 1 hr
Sugar
Almonds
Fresh cream

Ingredients

Quantity

Broken wheat

100 gms

Water

200 ml

800 gms

Ghee

25 ml

20 gms

Sugar

35 gms

Cashewnuts (roasted)

15 gms

1 kg

10 ml

Green cardamom powder

Method
Boil the apricots in water till they are

soft
Add sugar, water to the apricots and cook

till the mixture thickens. Cook to a
single string consistency
Pour into individual cups and garnish with

crushed almonds and fresh cream.

2 gms

Raisins

15 gms

Milk

250 ml

Method
Melt ghee. Add broken wheat and cook

for some time. To this add water and
pressure cook till the daliya is done
Add milk and cook on slow fire for some

Method
Mix all ingredients in Cocktail shaker and
top it up with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Energy Drink

Method
Put all the ingredients in a shaker and
shake. Put it in the Margarita Glass.
Slowly arrange the glasses as shown in
the picture. Then put Vodka from the top
and light with fire. While doing so, sip
the cocktail from the Margarita glass set
at the bottom with a straw. The two short
glasses arranged on either side and be
made colourful by putting any drink of
choice.

two slits through the underbelly of
each, one about ½ cm in from the head
end and the other about ½ cm in from
the first cut, cutting across the prawns
will prevent the prawns from curling
when they are cooked.

Place a wonton wrapper on the work

surface at an angel so that it forms a
diamond shape and then fold the top
corner over so that the point is in the
center. Place the prawn, slits down on
the wrapper with the tail protecting from
the end, then fold the bottom corner
over the end of the prawn.
Fold each side of the wrapper over in

turn to make a tightly folded roll. Tie a
noodle in a bow around the roll and set
it aside. Repeat with the remaining
prawns and wrappers. Heat the oil in a
deep fryer or work to 190oC fry the
prawns for 5-8 minutes until golden
brown and cooked through. Drain well
on kitchen paper and serve with sweet
chilli sauce.

❈ Milk is actually considered to be a food and not a
beverage.
❈ The table fork was introduced into England in
1601. Until then people would eat with their knives,
spoons or fingers. When Queen Elizabeth first used a
fork, the clergy went ballistic. They felt it was an
insult to God not to touch meat with one’s fingers.
❈ Before Columbus, Europe had never tasted cord,
potatoes, tomatoes, red peppers, sweet potatoes,
tapioca, chocolate, pumpkins, squash, coconuts,
pineapples, strawberries, and much more. Why? All
these food items are native to America.
❈ The cashew nut in its natural state contains
poisonous oil. Roasting removes the oil and makes
the nuts safe to eat.
❈ Although explorers brought potatoes back from
the New World in the early 1500s, Europeans were
afraid to eat them for fear that the spuds would give
them leprosy. It wasn’t until Louis XVI, who was
looking for a cheap food source for his starving
subjects, served them at the royal table that people
were convinced potatoes were safe to eat.
❈ In the Middle Ages, chicken soup was believed to
be an aphrodisiac.
❈ There is no alcohol left in food that’s cooked
with wine. The alcohol evaporates at 172 degrees
Fahrenheit.
❈ Cabbage is 91% water.

FOOD TRIVIA
❈ Celery has negative calories. It takes more
calories to eat a piece of celery than the celery has
in it to begin with.
❈ Honey is believed to be the only food that does
not spoil. Honey found in the tombs of Egyptian
pharaohs has been tasted by archaeologists and
found to still be edible.
❈ Cheese closes the stomach and should always be
served at the end of a meal.
❈ Peanuts are salted in the shell by boiling them in
a heavily salted solution, then allowing them to dry.
❈ The canning process for herring was developed in
Sardinia, which is why canned herrings are better
known as sardines.
❈ A quarter of raw potato placed in each shoe at
night will keep the leather soft and the shoes
smelling fresh and clean.
❈ Pineapples are classified as berries.
❈ Over the last 40 years food production actually
increased faster than population.
❈ Over 90% of all fish caught are caught in the
northern hemisphere.
❈ Approximately one billion snails are served in
restaurants annually.
❈ Vitamin A is known to prevent “night blindness,”
and carrots are loaded with Vitamin A. One carrot
provides more than 200% of recommended daily
intake of Vitamin A.
❈ Carrots have zero fat content.
❈ Tea is said to have been discovered in 2737 BC
by a Chinese emperor when some tea leaves
accidentally blew into a pot of boiling water.
❈ In the 1950’s some 80% of chickens in Europe
and the US were free-ranging. By 1980, it was only
1%. Today, about 13% of chickens in the West are
free-ranging.
❈ An onion, apple and potato all have the same
taste. The differences in flavour are caused by their
smell.

DIABETES IN KIDS
Diabetes also scientifically known as Diabetes
Mellitus is now a common occurrence in children.
There are many reasons why diabetes in children is
rising rapidly. Very often exposing children to a
certain virus such as the Coxsackie R virus or even
certain environmental causes can trigger a diabetic
condition. The most vulnerable period for children
to get diabetes is around early primary school years
or initial years of secondary school.
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes
There are two predominant varieties of diabetes.
While earlier, Type 2 used to be seen primarily in
adults, these days it is increasingly being found in
children as well. The Type 1 diabetes is also called
Diabetes Mellitus – IDDM and is characterized by
very low levels of insulin. In such cases patients
may be needed to manually inject insulin into their
bodies. In the Type 2 variety of diabetes the
patient’s body becomes immune to the effects of
insulin. It can also trigger when the child’s pancreas
are not able to product adequate levels of insulin.
What are the symptoms?
Diabetes in children is characterized by certain
specific symptoms. The need to drink water more
often, insufficient immunity to common infections,
blurred vision, any wounds which do not heal fast
enough, numb sensations in the hands and feet,
frequent urge to urinate, too much hunger for food,
rapid weight losses, irritable behavior and many
more. The problem with the symptoms of juvenile
diabetes patients face is that these symptoms are
easily considered as part of growing up years. Hence
parents tend to take these quite lightly. Moreover,
each of these symptoms alternates. Close watch
and careful observation is a must.

250

THE SUPERMARKET
The first ever American Supermarket:Before there were supermarkets, customers would
stay at the counter and point to the food items that
they wanted.
A worker at the store would reach for the items and
place them on the counter. This would cost the
owner of the store a lot of money because he had
to hire a lot of people to fetch all of the items for
all of the customers.
By having a self-service grocery store, there was a
greater chance of shoplifting but it cost less in
labour because the grocery store owner did not
have to hire as many workers.
While Piggly Wiggly was the first self-service store
(opened in 1916), the first supermarket was the King
Kullen Grocery Company in New York. King Kullen
opened in 1930.
The first store was 6,000 square feet in a former
garage in Jamaica, Queens, New York, and just a few
blocks from a busy shopping district.
The slogan for the store was, “Pile it high, sell it
low”, which means stack the food high and sell it
for a low price. People came to the store from all
around because the store provided affordable food.
It became known as the “World’s Greatest Price
Wrecker”.
When Cullen died in 1936, there were 17 stores in
operation in Queens and Nassau County, with 6
million in annual sales. When Cullen died, his wife
ran the business.
Today, King Kullen has approximately 50 stores
throughout Long Island and Staten Island. It is still a
family run business. It is recognized by the
Smithsonian Institute as America&#8217;s first
supermarket.

COFFEE TRIVIA
❈ Coffee was first known in Europe as Arabian
Wine.
❈ The Arabs are generally believed to be the first
to brew coffee.
❈ Milk as an additive to coffee became popular
in the 1680's, when a French physician
recommended that cafe au lait be used for
medicinal purposes.

❈ The heavy tea tax imposed on the colonies in
1773, which caused the "Boston Tea Party,"
resulted in America switching from tea to
coffee. Drinking coffee was an expression of
freedom.

❈ In the year 1790, there were two firsts in the
United States; the first wholesale coffee roasting
company, and the first newspaper
advertisement featuring coffee.
❈ The prototype of the first espresso machine
was created in France in 1822.
❈ The Civil War in the United States elevated the
popularity of coffee to new heights. Soldiers
went to war with coffee beans as a primary
ration.
❈ The first commercial espresso machine was
manufactured in Italy in 1906.
❈ In Italy, coffee and espresso are synonymous.
❈ The average age of an Italian barista is 48 years
old. A barista is a respected job title in Italy.

SABARWAAL BAR & RESTAURANT
4-1-356/3, Hanuman Tekdi, Hyderabad.
Tel : 24752924, 24753144
Seating Capacity : 320 Speciality : Indian, Punjabi,
Chinese, Tandoori
SAGAR PAPAJI-KA-DHABA
4-1-365/F/1, Reddy Hostel Road, Hanuman Tekdi,
Hyderabad. Tel : 24753857
Seating Capacity : 125 Speciality : Indian, Punjabi,
Chinese, Tandoori
SHER-E-PUNJAB DHABA
11-6-221, P.G. Road, Railway Station, Durga Bhavan
Complex, Nampally, Hyderabad-500001.
Tel : 23205501, 66825501
Seating Capacity : 60 Speciality : North Indian,
Punjabi, Mughalai
FOOD TRIVIA
❈ China uses 45 billion chopsticks per year. 25
million trees are chopped down to make them.
❈ Chocolate is the number one foodstuff flavour in
the world, beating vanilla and banana by 3-to-1.
❈ Each American eats approximately 22 pounds of
tomatoes yearly. Over 1/2 of the tomato
consumption is in the form of catsup and tomato
sauce.
❈ The average U.S. dairy cow produces 22.5 quarts
of milk each day. That’s about 16,000 glasses of
milk per year- enough for about 40 people. One cow
can give 200,000 glasses of milk in a lifetime.
❈ Americans eat approximately 100 acres of pizza
each day, or 350 slices per second.
❈ Onions contain a mild antibiotic that fights
infections, soothes burns, tames bee stings and
relieves the itch of athletes foot.
❈ A family of four could live for 10 years off the
bread produced by one acre of wheat.
❈ It takes just 40 days for most Americans to earn
enough money to pay for their food supply for the
entire year. In comparison with the 129 days it takes
the average American to earn enough money to pay
federal, state and local taxes for the year.